SALEM Ore. (KPTV) – After several dogs were sickened from salmon poisoning around Newport, Oregon authorities warned people to keep pets away from dead fish on Thursday.
According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, salmon and trout carcasses may harbor the bacteria Neorickettsia helminthoeca in their blood which can kill dogs without treatment. The bacteria is transmitted through a parasitic flatworm or “fluke” and can infect a dog after it eats, bites or even licks an infected fish carcass.
The highest risk of salmon poisoning is usually in September when salmon gather in rivers to spawn and die, so cases early in the year are unusual, according to ODFW.
ODFW Veterinarian Julia Burco said symptoms may begin five to seven days after exposure, which can include severe vomiting and diarrhea.
“A lot of time you may notice your dog not being as bouncy as it was,” Burco said.
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Burco advises pet owners to keep their dogs on a leash and in sight to keep them away from fish carcasses. She also warned people to collect and bag up all garbage associated with cleaning fish and to clean coolers and gear.
According to ODFW, the highest risk of salmon poisoning is usually in September when salmon gather in rivers to spawn and die, so cases early in the year are unusual.
An ODFW video about keeping dogs safe from salmon poisoning disease is available on YouTube.
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