Another case of the contagious disease canine leptospirosis has been confirmed in the Tucson area, officials said Monday.
A private veterinarian confirmed the latest case of the potentially fatal illness in a dog that frequented Udall Park, 7200 E. Tanque Verde Road. Officials a recommending that dog owners avoid this area for the time being and contact their veterinarian if their dog has recently visited the park.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can affect people and animals. It is mostly spread through the urine of infected wildlife and livestock, primarily through contaminated water sources. At this time, county officials are aware of seven total confirmed cases here. There have been no reported human cases in Pima County.
Common signs of leptospirosis in dogs include drinking more than usual, urinating more than usual, lack of urination, redness in eyes, depression, reluctance to eat and fever over 103.5 degrees. Human infection of leptospirosis is rare.
