Did Lake Decatur Kill A Labrador With Leptospirosis

That seems to be the question at this time on whether it was from the water or something else that had caused David Boys dog to die from Leptospirosis.

The veterinarian who treated David’s dog Buddy named Dr. Larry Baker said: Water is the most common place they can get it, but they can get it from moist soil or exposure to anyplace animals urinate.

While the director of water management Keith Alexander said: It's inconclusive as to whether it came from Lake Decatur or not, there is no way to tell with certainty whether the two dog deaths were related to contact with water or related to urine or blood contact with other animals on dry land.

David Boys has another dog who is a Golden Retriever and he said: I'm afraid to take him swimming, I'm terrified. I'm afraid it might be in my backyard. I'm still worried about myself, my girlfriend or my other dog might come down with it. It's gut-wrenching.

Signs and Symptoms in Pets

The clinical signs of leptospirosis vary and are nonspecific. Sometimes pets do not have any symptoms. Common clinical signs have been reported in dogs. These include:
• Fever
• Vomiting
• abdominal pain
• diarrhea
• refusal to eat
• severe weakness and depression
• stiffness
• severe muscle pain
• inability to have puppies
Generally younger animals are more seriously affected than older animals.
If you think your pet may have Leptospirosis, contact your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian can perform tests to determine whether or not your pet has the disease.

Article from the CDC

Read the article by Chris Lusvardi here.