Expert issues warning after woman dies from being licked by dog.
August 2, 2025•3 min read
Most dog owners love a slobbery kiss from their furry friend. But in rare cases, a dog’s lick can turn dangerous — even deadly. Tragically, this is what happened to 83-year-old June Baxter from Norfolk, UK.
What Happened?
On June 29, June accidentally cut her leg while using a commode at home. When her granddaughter arrived, her dog licked the wound — something most of us wouldn’t think twice about. Unfortunately, that lick introduced a bacteria called Pasteurella multocida, commonly found in the mouths of dogs.
At first, everything seemed manageable. Paramedics treated her wound, but the next day June felt unwell and was rushed to Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. Doctors discovered she had developed a serious infection that quickly escalated into sepsis, a life-threatening condition. Despite treatment, she passed away on July 7.
According to the coroner, June’s existing health issues (including kidney, liver, and heart problems) made her more vulnerable to severe infection.
How Dangerous Are Dog Licks Really?
Before you panic and ban your pup from cuddles, experts emphasize that cases like this are extremely rare.
Dr. Andrew Conlan, an epidemiologist from the University of Cambridge, told The Times that the risk of serious infection from dog saliva is “incredibly low for most healthy people.”
Dr. Margit Muller, a veterinary surgeon, explained that dog licks on hands and arms are usually harmless. However, she recommends avoiding:
Open wounds
Eyes, nose, and mouth (areas with mucous membranes that absorb bacteria more easily)
An expert has issued a warning regarding dog licks (Getty Stock Photo)
Pro Tip: If you have a cut or scrape, keep it clean and covered to prevent any type of bacterial infection — whether from pets or the environment.
Should You Stop Letting Your Dog Lick You?
Not necessarily. Most people won’t experience any problems from a dog’s lick. But being aware of the risks helps you stay safe:
Seek medical advice if a wound becomes red, swollen, or painful.
June sadly died earlier this month (Facebook)
For more information on sepsis and how to prevent infections, visit NHS Guidelines.
Bottom line: This heartbreaking story is a reminder that while dogs bring joy to our lives, a little extra caution can go a long way — especially if you or someone you love is vulnerable to infections.
Jennifer Gomez
Jennifer Gomez writes with heart and clarity, exploring human stories, viral trends, and the deeper meaning behind the headlines for ViralSensei. (viralsensei.com) Keywords: human stories, viral trends, deeper meaning, thoughtful commentary
