A new study found that our beloved dogs and cats are transferring antibiotic-resistant "superbugs" to us.
Portuguese scientists identified E. coli and pneumonia-related bacteria.
The World Health Organization (WHO) calls drug-resistant diseases one of the biggest public health risks since they kill 700,000 people a year and could kill 10 million by 2050.
Dogs, cats, and other pets already spread antibiotic-resistant germs that can infect humans.
It was unclear whether diseased pets shared diseases with their owners until today.
Common-antibiotic-resistant Enterobacterales including E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were examined in dog, cat, and owner stool samples.
Experts prioritized antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. Third-generation cephalosporins for meningitis, pneumonia, and sepsis are considered "the most critically vital" by WHO.
"In this study, we present proof that germs resistant to third-generation cephalosporins, critically important antibiotics, are being conveyed from dogs to their owners," said University of Lisbon PhD student Ms Menezes.