Bacteria outbreak affecting dogs

(NEWS10) – A new warning about a potentially life-threatening bacteria that's affecting dogs.

The outbreak is happening in Boston and the Animal Rescue League has now diagnosed three positive cases of leptospirosis.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Foundation, symptoms may include fever, shivering, muscle tenderness, reluctance to move, increased rate, urination, dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes), or painful inflammation within the eyes.

The disease can cause kidney failure. Dogs may occasionally develop severe lung disease and have difficulty breathing.

Leptospirosis can cause bleeding disorders, which can lead to blood-tinged vomit, urine, stool or saliva; nosebleeds; and pinpoint red spots (which may be visible on the gums and other mucous membranes or on light-colored skin).

Affected dogs can also develop swollen legacies (from fluid accumulation) or accumulate excess fluid in their chest or abdomen.

The bacteria spread through the urine of infected animals and can be transmitted to humans, at risk for kidney damage and liver failure.

In Boston, the bacteria is usually spread by people in the city's parks and fountains.