!Online Store! Button Tablet

!Call Now! Button Tablet

!Call Now! Button Desktop

Call Now! 504-456-0240 Request Appointment

!Call Now! Icon

Waterborne Diseases For Dogs 

March 15, 2023

We definitely have a lot of water here in Louisiana. We have 57 lakes, and countless miles of swamps and bayou. That makes for beautiful scenery, but there is a downside. Not only can waters hide dangerous critters such as snakes and gators, they can also be a haven for waterborne diseases and bacteria. A New Orleans, LA vet lists some key ones for pet owners to be aware of below. 

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is caused by a bacteria that thrives in wet conditions. It’s found in areas where infected animals have drank or urinated. Pets can contract the disease simply by walking through a spot an infected animal passed through earlier. Warning signs include vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of appetite. Lepto can be treated, though it’s important for Fido to get prompt care. It’s also worth noting that there is a vaccine available, though it may not be recommended for all pets. Ask your vet for more information.

Giardiasis

Giardiasis is a parasitic disease that causes diarrhea. The culprit here is a protozoa, Giardia duodenalis, which lives in the intestines. As one may expect, diarrhea is the most common symptom here, though some dogs still have regular stools. Giardia can be treated, though you would need to get your pet to the vet immediately.

Pythiosis

Pythiosis—also known as swamp cancer—is one of the rarer issues on the list, but it’s also one of the most dangerous. In fact, it’s often fatal. Pythios is caused by a specific kind of fungus, which infects the skin and digestive tract. Warning signs include lesions, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and bloody stools.

Protothecosis

Protothecosis thrives in warm, humid areas, so it’s no surprise that the Gulf Coast is a hotbed. Like pythiosis, it can cause skin lesions. It can also lead to blindness, seizures, diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss.  

Cyanobacteria (Blue-Green Algae)

Warm freshwater ponds and lakes tend to form algae blooms, which can be extremely toxic, and can often be fatal. Blooms do cause scum and bad smells, but you can’t tell if a lake is safe by looking at it, so always do your research. Pay close attention to signs posted around areas, and don’t let your canine buddy splash, swim, play in, or drink water unless you’re sure it’s safe. 

As your New Orleans, LA animal clinic, we are dedicated to offering great care. Contact us anytime!

Entertaining Your Aging Feline Friend

Is your kitty a furry, meowing senior? Fluffy is an adorable and fun pet through

Common Pet Care Mistakes

About sixty-six percent of American households include animal companions. Or, to put it another way,

Kitten Care Tips

Are you considering adopting a kitten? Perhaps your own feline pal has recently given birth,

Petproofing Tips: Keeping Your Frisky Buddy Safe

Did you know that poisonings are one of the top reasons for urgent veterinary care

Helping Multiple Cats Get Along

Are you considering adding a second—or perhaps third—kitty to your household? Cats are small, but

Common Pet Care Mistakes

Pets are more than furry little roommates: they are important parts of our lives and

Easter Safety For Pets

Easter is a seasonal milestone, a time to gather with family as the seasons change.

Keeping Fido Safe On St Pawtrick’s Day 

Keeping Fido Safe On St Pawtrick’s Day  St. Patrick’s Day may not be the biggest

Celebrating K-9 Veterans

March has arrived, along with several pet-related holidays. Working dogs get the spotlight on the

Caring For Your Dog’s Paws

Does your canine friend know any cute paw tricks? Fido’s furry feet are not only