Extreme Chicago Winter Increases Leptospirosis Cases Seen in Local Dogs (Chicago) Veterinarians at Blum Animal Hospital saw two positive cases of Leptospirosis in vaccinated dogs within the Lakeview area this past month. Leptospirosis is an infectious disease affecting both dogs and humans causing serious liver and kidney damage and even death. The bacteria is carried by rats and raccoons and is spread by direct contact with their urine, most commonly through standing puddles of water. Due to the severe winter Chicago experienced, the spring thaw will lead to both an increased amount of standing water and a potential rodent population explosion- both of which make Chicago a hotbed for Leptospirosis. Despite vaccinations, two unrelated dogs in the Lakeview area were recently diagnosed with Leptospirosis, causing concern among the veterinarians involved that more cases will follow. Chicago’s record snowfall, combined with the emerging rodent population widely recognized by state officials, along with Mayor Rahm Emanuel, create the perfect storm for the pervasive spread of this disease. The Leptospirosis bacteria is most commonly found in Chicago in the urine of rats and raccoons. The bacteria survive in warm, moist environments, such as puddles and small ponds and can be transmitted to dogs when they drink from these compromised water sources. Infected pets pass the disease on to humans through direct or indirect contact with urine and feces. According to Dr. Natalie Marks, DVM, Blum Animal Hospital’s veterinarian treating both dogs testing positive for Leptospirosis, “owners need to stay aware and be cautious of all standing water, communal water bowls, koi ponds, dog parks and beaches and off-leash dog care facilities”. Although the Leptospirosis vaccine protects dogs from the bacteria, when challenged by environmental conditions, vaccines are not 100% effective. They lessen the chance of infection and lessen the intensity of the disease but owners must be on high alert this season. Dr. Marks recommends vaccinating pets, if not already vaccinated, keeping dogs away from any standing water and immediately picking up feces, which attracts rats and other rodents.NBC 5 Chicago News
Posted on: Sat, 05 Apr 2014 17:32:49 +0000
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