An update on the recent outbreaks in the Southern Highlands that have caused some concern. 

Firstly, we ask that if you have concerns that your pet has a contagious illness, please call us on arrival before bringing them into the clinic. This is to ensure that all of our patients are protected from exposure to contagious illnesses. We will assess your pet in your car first before bringing them in.

You may have already heard of these illnesses being in circulation.

Leptospirosis

There have been at least two cases of Leptospirosis diagnosed in the Southern Highlands recently that we are aware of. It has been detected in the South Coast of NSW, as well as Greater-Sydney region for some time. This is a dangerous bacteria that is spread by the urine of infected rats, mice and dogs. It is usually contracted by drinking from waterways where infected urine has tracked into. Leptospirosis is Zoonotic, meaning it can be transferred to humans as well. Sadly, this bacteria can be fatal and it is vital that prevention is up-to-date. Leptospirosis can damage the kidneys and liver, potentially leading to multi-organ failure. Symptoms to watch out for are lethargy, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing gums and eyes), increased urination, increased drinking, vomiting and diarrhoea. If your dog is not up-to-date with their Leptospirosis vaccination, or you are unsure, please get in touch. Leptospirosis very rarely impacts cats, as they are more resistant to it than dogs and often don’t show symptoms.

It is important that we mention while you may be tempted to control rats or mice by using bait, you must be extremely cautious as rat bait can be fatal if your pet ingests bait and it isn’t treated urgently. We recommend traps rather than bait, but if you must use bait, please use first-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (FGARs) such as Warfarin and Coumatetralyl (a brand we know of is Surefire Couma Blocks Rodenticide).

Kennel Cough

Typically during school holidays, Kennel Cough spikes due to dogs being in boarding and socialising more. Kennel Cough usually isn’t overly harmful to your dog, but it can linger and potentially cause pneumonia if left untreated. It is highly contagious, so it is very important to ensure that your dog is up-to-date with their vaccinations to reduce the risk of infection and spread. The symptoms to watch out for are persistent coughing, lethargy, discharge from the nose/eyes and sometimes loss of appetite. This is not a virus that is present in cats.

If you have any concerns regarding any of the above information, please call 4868 1400 to discuss with our team.

If you wish to book an appointment, you can also book online at Book Online – Moss Vale Veterinary Hospital