Be aware of raccoons and diseases

frequently deposited in areas used by multiple animals to relieve themselves. Dogs and cats can be infected and transmit disease to humans.

The roundworm can kill when its larvae migrate into the brain. Great care must be taken to avoid contact with raccoon stool, which can enter the home on firewood. Strict sanitation when working outside and on camping trips is necessary. Hand washing to prevent oral ingestion is critical, especially for young children.

Another disease spread by raccoons is leptospirosis. This is a serious bacterial disease found worldwide, and humans are usually exposed during recreational activities involving water. Dogs can become infected after exposure to creeks, farms, parks and wildlife. At a recent lecture on leptospirosis, I learned that the disease is more common in small-breed dogs, which are often not vaccinated because their owners fear a reaction to vaccines. Dogs can be exposed to the urine of raccoons and other wildlife in the yard or on a deck. Our office recently confirmed a diagnosis of leptospirosis in a miniature poodle. The dog was lucky to recover.

With improved diagnostic tests and more awareness, veterinarians are becoming better at diagnosing this disease, which can cause kidney and liver failure in dogs. Immediate treatment with antibiotics and supportive care is necessary. To avoid reactions in small dogs, we recommend a separate vaccination for leptospirosis. Although it may mean an extra visit to the veterinarian, it’s well worth it. Vaccines for leptospirosis have been improved, and reactions are far less common than in the past.