Reality television sensation Vicky Pattison has inadvertently triggered a wave of online revulsion after sharing an intimate moment with her beloved French Bulldog that left fans utterly horrified.
The former I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! winner and Strictly Come Dancing contestant posted what she intended as a heartwarming clip of her pet pooch planting affectionate licks across her face—including directly on her mouth—to her extensive Instagram following.
Rather than eliciting the expected 'awws', the video was met with a torrent of criticism and concern. Followers swiftly flooded the comments section, branding the act "disgusting", "unhygienic", and a serious health hazard.
Fan Outcry and Expert Warnings
"Please don't let your dog lick your mouth. That is how you catch all sorts of diseases!" pleaded one alarmed fan, echoing the sentiments of hundreds. Another commented, "I love my dog more than anything, but that is a hard no. So grim."
The public reaction underscores a wider debate about pet ownership and hygiene. Health professionals frequently caution that allowing dogs to lick human mouths can facilitate the transmission of zoonotic diseases—bacteria and parasites like salmonella, E. coli, and giardia that can pass from animals to humans.
A Pattern of Canine Controversy
This is not the first time a celebrity's interaction with their pet has sparked a public health discussion. However, the timing for Pattison, who is currently in the spotlight for her participation in the upcoming season of Strictly, has amplified the scrutiny.
Despite the backlash, a contingent of die-hard supporters rushed to her defence, arguing that the bond between an owner and their pet is personal and that the criticism was an overreaction.
As the debate continues to rage online, the incident serves as a stark reminder that in the age of social media, even the most innocent of moments can become a national talking point, for better or worse.
