I thought that I would post this article on a disease that isn't all that new. My brother's black lab Heather died from this 5 years ago - and she was only a family pet. His new(er) lab, Bailey is now vaccinated for this disease. BTW, we live in New Hampshire.
Vets Warn Of Potentially Fatal Disease Affecting Dogs
Illness Common In Hunting Dogs Seen In Backyard Pets
OMAHA, Neb. -- A fatal disease often found in hunting dogs has been infecting some backyard pets.
Some dogs in the Midwest have been contracting leptospirosis, commonly found in hunting dogs who often come in contact with wildlife.
A dog contracts the disease by drinking tainted water or by getting contaminated water on the skin.
"The main vectors or the main animals that spread it are possums, raccoons, little rodents -- most of the things we have running through our back yards at nighttime," veterinarian Dr. Michael Hord said.
Veterinarians said the disease starts with flu-like symptoms, then attacks the dog's kidneys and liver. Often, owners don't catch it until it's too late.
The disease can be prevented with a vaccination.
Vets Warn Of Potentially Fatal Disease Affecting Dogs
Illness Common In Hunting Dogs Seen In Backyard Pets
OMAHA, Neb. -- A fatal disease often found in hunting dogs has been infecting some backyard pets.
Some dogs in the Midwest have been contracting leptospirosis, commonly found in hunting dogs who often come in contact with wildlife.
A dog contracts the disease by drinking tainted water or by getting contaminated water on the skin.
"The main vectors or the main animals that spread it are possums, raccoons, little rodents -- most of the things we have running through our back yards at nighttime," veterinarian Dr. Michael Hord said.
Veterinarians said the disease starts with flu-like symptoms, then attacks the dog's kidneys and liver. Often, owners don't catch it until it's too late.
The disease can be prevented with a vaccination.
