LEPTOSPIROSIS INFECTION ALERT FOR

LAKE AQUITAINE/ DERRY RD/ WINSTON CHURCHILL AREA

Veterinarians are reporting a potential cluster of leptospirosis cases in dogs near Lake Aquitaine in Mississauga (the Winston Churchill Blvd. & Derry Rd. area). Leptospira gryppotyphosa has been confirmed in one dog, with other cases being suspected but not confirmed because owners declined testing.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by different types of Leptospira spp. These bacteria can be found in water and moist conditions, and infections in dogs most often result in kidney disease. The bacterium is shed in the urine of infected animals. Leptospira gryppotyphosa is mainly found in wild voles, raccoons, skunks and opossums, and these animals can infect various environmental areas. Any animals exposed to outdoor environments in endemic areas can become infected from ingesting infected water or from contact of infected water with the mouth, eyes or nose, or cuts or other broken skin.

Clients who live in the Lake Aquitane area should take particular caution, and avoid letting their animals wander into the water or wet areas. This is also a good opportunity to remind clients about the importance of vaccinating pets.

This information was provided by Scott Weese, DVM, DVSc., DipACVIM, OVC, University of Guelph. More information can be found on his blog at www.wormsandgermsblog.com