Welcome to DU!
The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards.
Join the community:
Create a free account
Support DU (and get rid of ads!):
Become a Star Member
Latest Breaking News
General Discussion
The DU Lounge
All Forums
Issue Forums
Culture Forums
Alliance Forums
Region Forums
Support Forums
Help & Search
Dog dies in Albemarle County of apparent exposure to bacteria in river
Dog dies in Albemarle County of apparent exposure to bacteria in river
BY BRYAN MCKENZIE The Daily Progress Aug 16, 2019
CHARLOTTESVILLE — A common bacteria carried by wildlife and passed into soil through urination is being blamed for the death of a dog in Albemarle County — and veterinarians are recommending that dogs that are often near lakes and rivers be vaccinated.
The dog reportedly had spent a play day at the Rivanna River and apparently contracted leptospirosis and died about a week later, veterinarians said.
Veterinarians said owners whose dogs spend time near rivers, lakes or on farms should consider having their pets vaccinated for the bacteria. Owners should also be careful as the bacteria can be transmitted to people and because the canine vaccines are not always 100% effective due to the wide variety of leptospira.
“The decision to vaccinate for leptospirosis should be based on consultation with a veterinarian about the dog’s lifestyle,” said Dr. Martin Betts, with the Charlottesville Veterinary Hospital. “If a dog always walks on a leash, doesn’t leave a yard and lives more of an urban life, there’s probably not much need. If the dog goes near a river or is near wildlife, it’s something to consider.”
....
BY BRYAN MCKENZIE The Daily Progress Aug 16, 2019
CHARLOTTESVILLE — A common bacteria carried by wildlife and passed into soil through urination is being blamed for the death of a dog in Albemarle County — and veterinarians are recommending that dogs that are often near lakes and rivers be vaccinated.
The dog reportedly had spent a play day at the Rivanna River and apparently contracted leptospirosis and died about a week later, veterinarians said.
Veterinarians said owners whose dogs spend time near rivers, lakes or on farms should consider having their pets vaccinated for the bacteria. Owners should also be careful as the bacteria can be transmitted to people and because the canine vaccines are not always 100% effective due to the wide variety of leptospira.
“The decision to vaccinate for leptospirosis should be based on consultation with a veterinarian about the dog’s lifestyle,” said Dr. Martin Betts, with the Charlottesville Veterinary Hospital. “If a dog always walks on a leash, doesn’t leave a yard and lives more of an urban life, there’s probably not much need. If the dog goes near a river or is near wildlife, it’s something to consider.”
....