Doctors McKenzie and Lootsma recently attended a seminar on leptospirosis in Ontario. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that is spread by wild animals. Nearly 1 in 2 skunks and 1 in 3 raccoons across Ontario are carrying leptospirosis. The bacteria is present in the kidneys of infected animal and is spread when they urinate. Wildlife carrying the bacteria tend to occur more likely in areas of higher human population, which means that our city pets are at risk of becoming infected with this disease. Although treatment is available, diagnosis of leptospirosis can be difficult and the disease can be fatal. Vaccinations are available and play an important role in preventing the disease in dogs at higher risk.
