N.J. Health Officials Warn of Leptospirosis Threat to Dogs

PARAMUS, N.J. — Health officials in New Jersey are warning pet owners about a deadly disease that is passed through rats, CBS New York reported.
    
Veterinarians in the state say they have seen a rise in the number of dogs who have contracted leptospirosis this year. The disease — known in some parts of the world as mud fever or swamp fever — is a bacterial infection that is transmitted through rat urine. Health officials say dogs may be exposed to the infection after lapping up puddle water.

CBS New York reports that at least three dogs died and two others were sickened by the disease in northern New Jersey.

The infection can also be hazardous for humans if they come into contact with rat urine.

Source: CBS News