A case of a potentially fatal bacterial disease – which can in some rare instances spread to humans – has been confirmed in an unvaccinated Jersey dog.
Leptospirosis is a primarily zoonotic infection which is spread by urine, and can be “serious and fatal” to animals.
New Era Veterinary Hospital warned dog owners that there has been a case of the infection found in a dog on the Island.
The veterinary hospital explained that contamination occurs from rats and the areas they urinate in, including bin areas, water and soil.
Dogs could also pick up the infection from sniffing or licking another dogs contaminated urine.
Symptoms in dogs may include jaundice, vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, reduced appetite, increased thirst and weeing, difficulty breathing or faster breathing, weight loss and coughing.
This presents similarly in humans, however there is a small chance of it reaching a second phase called Weil’s Disease – which can be life-threatening.
In a post on social media, New Era Veterinary Hospital asked that dog owners check their pet’s vaccination records are up to date.
“We need to make dog owners aware that a confirmed case of leptospirosis has been made on the Island in an unvaccinated dog.
“Please ensure your dogs annual vaccination is up to date to minimise the risks and contact us if your dog is unwell”.
States Vet Susana Ramos added: “Leptospirosis in animals is not notifiable or reportable in Jersey. Whilst cases are relatively infrequent, they do occur occasionally.
“Leptospirosis is most commonly transmitted by water contaminated with urine, so outbreaks are often associated with heavy rainfall and flooding.
“The best way to prevent leptospirosis in dogs is to vaccinate, please discuss vaccination with your private vet”, she said.
The Leptospirosis vaccine for dogs covers four strains of the bacteria.
