Disease Fatal to Dogs Can Spread to Humans in Colorado

Leptospirosis, a disease that is fatal to dogs and can also spread to humans is on the rise in Colorado and other states.

One of the early symptoms in dogs is when they drink a lot of water and have to go frequently, sometimes indoors because they're unable to hold it. Another way to check is for yellowness in the eyes. Jaundice is a sign the disease has spread.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the disease is spread between dogs through urine. Dogs who inspect those areas can become infected easily. Dogs who lick their owners and are infected can spread the disease to their owners.

For humans, the signs will be like those of a stomach bug and can be treated with antibiotics, much the same as for dogs, if caught in time. Cats, however, are immune from it.

Colorado doesn't report Leptospirosis in humans, so how many have contracted the disease thus far is unknown.

There is also a vaccination pet owners can get for their dogs, but many do not due to the cost.

Losing a pet is a much higher cost.