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Infectious Diseases

  • Roundworms are the most common gastrointestinal worm found in dogs and can also be transmitted to people. They are of most concern to puppies when present in large numbers, causing stunted growth, a pot-bellied appearance, and recurrent diarrhea. Diagnostic testing, treatment, and preventive measures are explained in this handout.

  • Salmon poisoning is a bacterial infection that occurs when dogs eat raw or undercooked salmon, trout, steelhead, or Pacific giant salamanders infected with a parasitic flatworm that is infected with a particular bacteria. If the infection is not treated, most dogs will die within two weeks.

  • Sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies, is caused by a parasitic mite that burrows just beneath the surface of the skin. The presence of the sarcoptic mite causes intense itching; an affected dog will constantly chew and scratch his skin. Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious to other dogs and humans.

  • Selamectin + and sarolaner (Revolution Plus®) is used in cats 8 weeks and older to prevent heartworms and intestinal parasites (hookworms and roundworms), kill and prevent fleas, ticks and to control ear mites. It may also be used off label (extra label) “off-label” for the treatment of treat Demodex mites (demodicosis) in cats. Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment and notify your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

  • H1N1 influenza virus emerged in pigs as a genetic sharing of DNA from both human and swine influenza viruses. It caused a deadly pandemic in 2009 and continues to be an important cause of illness today. Pets including cats and dogs can be infected from their owners and become ill. It is not yet known to transfer from pets to humans. Good hygiene and restricted exposure should be taken immediately if there is any sign of influenza-like infection to restrict spread between humans, and between humans and their pets or domestic animals.

  • Tapeworms are parasites that infect the gastrointestinal tract of cats, other animals, and humans. Several types of tapeworms are known to infect pets, but the most common species observed in cats is Dipylidium caninum, which is transmitted through fleas. Risk factors, clinical signs, treatment, and prevention are explained in this handout.

  • Tapeworms are parasites that infect the gastrointestinal tract of dogs, other animals, and humans. Several types of tapeworms are known to infect pets, but the most common species observed in dogs is Dipylidium caninum, which is transmitted through fleas. Risk factors, clinical signs, treatment, and prevention are explained in this handout.

  • There are several tests for diagnosing leptospirosis, but the two most common ones are the DNA-PCR test and the microscopic agglutination test (MAT). Infection can be diagnosed with either test, but each has limitations, and in some situations, both tests may be needed to reach a diagnosis.

  • Tetanus is a medical condition caused by a toxin. This toxin affects the nerves, spinal cord, and brain, leading to hyperexcitability resulting in muscle spasms. Cats are less susceptible to the effects of tetanus toxin than humans and horses.

  • Tetanus is a medical condition caused by a toxin. This toxin affects the nerves, spinal cord and brain, leading to hyperexcitability, resulting in muscle spasms. Dogs are less susceptible to the effects of tetanus toxin than humans and horses.