Fall is a season of increased wildlife activity on the Oregon coast. As raccoons and rodents become more active in search of food, the risk of pets encountering certain diseases also rises. At Newport Veterinary Hospital, we want pet owners to be aware of two important health threats that can affect both animals and humans: Baylisascaris and Leptospirosis.

Baylisascaris: The Raccoon Roundworm

Baylisascaris is a type of roundworm commonly carried by raccoons. Pets can become infected if they come into contact with raccoon feces or contaminated soil. While many infected animals show no signs, Baylisascaris can cause serious illness if the larvae migrate through the body.

How pets are exposed:

  • Sniffing or ingesting raccoon feces while outdoors.
  • Digging or playing in contaminated soil.
  • Eating small rodents that may carry the parasite.

Signs of infection may include:

  • Lethargy
  • Loss of coordination
  • Tremors or neurological symptoms (in severe cases)

What to do:

  • Prevent unsupervised roaming, especially in wooded or high-raccoon activity areas.
  • Regularly clean up outdoor spaces to reduce exposure.
  • Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet shows concerning neurological signs.

Leptospirosis: Spread by Rodents and Wildlife

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through the urine of infected animals, especially rodents. Pets can become infected when they drink, swim in, or walk through contaminated water or soil. Leptospirosis is also a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from pets to people.

How pets are exposed:

  • Drinking from puddles, ponds, or slow-moving streams contaminated with wildlife urine.
  • Contact with wet soil or surfaces where rodents are active.

Signs of infection may include:

  • Fever
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Lethargy and muscle pain
  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or gums)

What to do:

  • Ask your veterinarian about the leptospirosis vaccine (lepto), which is highly recommended for dogs in Oregon.
  • Keep rodents under control around your home.
  • Prevent pets from drinking out of puddles or standing water during walks.
  • Seek veterinary care immediately if your pet develops sudden illness, especially after outdoor exposure.

Protecting Pets and Families

Both Baylisascaris and Leptospirosis are preventable with the right precautions. By supervising outdoor time, keeping up with vaccines and parasite prevention, and scheduling regular wellness exams, you can keep your pets safe while protecting your family, too.

📞 Call Newport Veterinary Hospital at 541-265-7448 to schedule a fall wellness visit or ask about the leptospirosis vaccine.