Dr. Dan Meakin
By Dr. Dan Meakin

Leptospirosis – Common Yet Preventable

• What it is: An infections bacterial disease that occurs in rodents, dogs, and other mammals and can be transmitted to humans. In fact, it is the number 1 disease people get from animals.

• Who is at risk: All animals can potentially become infected. Pets at higher risk are those who can have contact with the urine of wild animals.

• What you can do: At All Creatures, we vaccinate against the disease annually as it is the best way to prevent contraction. Most local vets do not have this vaccine as a standard.

Canine Influenza – Disease Alert!

• What it is: This virus causes a respiratory infection in dogs very similar to the human flu.

• Who is at risk: Because this is a fairly new virus, almost all dogs are susceptible. Those with the highest risk are those who participate in any social circuits such as boarding, daycare, travelling, etc.

• What you can do: A safe and effective vaccination against Canine Influenza is available which controls the virus’ spread and minimizes its impact.

Lyme Disease – It’s coming Our way!

• What it is: A bacterial disease that can affect both humans and dogs. In canines it is characterized by arthritis-like symptoms and, sometimes, fever, appetite loss, and depression.

• Who is at risk: Pets who are frequently exposed to wooded areas or other tick-populated areas are at the highest risk of infection.

• What you can do: Vaccination is highly effective against the disease but, to avoid ticks altogether, it is highly recommended that all dogs be on preventative medicine.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever – Clermont Cty most affected in Ohio

• What it is: This is a potentially fatal tick-borne bacterial infection.

• Who is at risk: As with Lyme Disease, pets with the greatest exposure to ticks have the greatest risk of infection, although a tick can find its way to any pet.

Dr. Dan Meakin is the owner of All Creatures Animal Hospital, 1894 Ohio Pike in Amelia. Call (513) 797-PETS.