A Tillsonburg veterinary clinic has taken to social media to warn dog owners about the effects of a bacterial disease.
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Leptospirosis is carried by scavengers such as raccoons, skunks, and rats, but also deer. The bacteria is hidden in urine and can attach to canines as they pass an infected area.
“We’ve seen a trend in it this year compared to what we’ve seen in previous years,” said Dr. Julia Hodgins of the Ostrander Veterinary Clinic, located just north of Tillsonburg.
“It’s something that the pets don’t need to come in contact with the infected animal, it’s sharing space with them.”
The clinic recently posted to its Facebook page the need for pet owners to be on the lookout as the bacteria can cause vomiting, lethargy, and an unquenchable thirst.
“We do see it in Tillsonburg a bit more often because we have ravines in the area, and there is a fair population of wildlife here,” Hodgins said.
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“It is important to know that it spreads from pets to humans, so if your pet contracts it, you’re at risk as well.”
Cases are generally seen in the fall but can come at any time. Infected dogs require an initial set of blood work and a second to confirm the leptospirosis bacteria. In humans, the bacteria can cause fever, chills, headache, muscle and joint pain, red eyes, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rash.
Hodgins suggests all dogs receive a once-per-year leptospirosis vaccine as a preventive measure. Not letting your dog drink standing water is another safety tactic.
If a dog owner suspects their furry friend may have contracted leptospirosis, Hodgins urged them to call their local vet right away.
“Cases can be a slow onset, so it happens over a few days,” Hodgins said. “Others can be very sudden and they’re sick.”
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