Spring is here and with it the time we and our pets spend outside in our yards and on walks increases. As the snow melts and the natural world awakens so too do some less pleasant things that have accumulated over the winter. The Central Bark Manitowoc staff would like to remind pet parents to be diligent when your pets are outside, some of the less pleasant things lurking in puddles and standing water this time of year include Giardia and Leptospirosis.
Giardia is an internal parasite that causes loose stool and possibly abdominal pain and vomiting. It is shed in the stools of infected birds and other animals. Giardiasis can be detected via fecal testing by your veterinarian.
Leptospirosis is a bacteria shed in the urine of animals and may also be carried by birds. Lepto causes fever, muscle stiffness and soreness, weakness and lack of appetite among other potential symptoms. Fortunately, a vaccination exists which can help to protect dogs, which we encourage our pet parents talk to their vet about.
Both of these are zoonotic diseases, which means they are shared between humans and animals. Infections are best avoided by minimizing your dog’s exposure to standing water and puddles on walks and outdoors. With the abundance of birds and wild animals in our community these diseases are often lurking in our commonly used areas.
As always we ask that you let us know if your pup has been diagnosed with any communicable condition, so that we can keep an eye out for other daycare attendees and adjust your future reservations as needed.
And don’t forget, tick season is right around the corner!