Many people are unaware that their dog's waste―or feces―can carry dozens of diseases that can affect both people and pets. As it decays naturally in the soil, the bacteria, viruses and other parasites present can contaminate underground water, lakes, rivers and other water sources. Plus, many of these bacteria and parasites can live for several months to several years in the soil, long after the feces are gone.
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Campylobacteriosis
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The campylobacter bacterium causes intestinal inflammation in humans and household pets. It produces symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting and loss of appetite. Fortunately, campylobacteriosis is easy to treat with antibiotics and supportive home therapy.
Coliform Bacteria
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According to an article by Doody Calls, a single gram of canine feces contains more than 20 million coliform bacteria. This bacteria alone can cause diarrhea, cramps and kidney issues in humans.
Coronavirus
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Dogs can also transmit the coronavirus between other dogs. Fortunately, the coronavirus is not considered to be as severe as some other canine diseases and does not have a high death rate. Symptoms of canine coronavirus include diarrhea, dehydration and intestinal upset.
Escherichia Coli (E. Coli)
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E. Coli is a well known bacteria that can infect humans and pets. This bacteria, commonly found in dog waste, can cause mild to severe diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach tenderness and severe cramps. If left untreated in humans, it can lead to severe kidney issues and in some cases, kidney failure.
Giardiasis
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Giardiasis is a highly contagious infection caused by giardia protozoa. It is commonly spread through the feces of an infected canine. This infection requires treatment because the giardia protozoa prevent nutrients from being absorbed in the small intestine. Symptoms of giardiasis include gas, bloating, diarrhea and weight loss.
Leptospirosis
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Leptospirosis can affect both dogs and humans. When leptospira organisms are contracted through contact with contaminated dog waste, it can multiply quickly in the blood stream. Symptoms of leptospirosis include shivering, vomiting, fever, muscle tenderness, dehydration, hypothermia, depression and kidney or liver failure. Unfortunately, some dogs may die from leptospirosis.
Parvovirus
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The highly contagious parvovirus can be found in an infected dog's feces. However, the canine parvovirus cannot be spread to humans or to other species. Canine parvovirus can only be spread between dogs. Symptoms of a parvo infection in a dog include diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, loss of appetite and eventually, death.
Salmonellosis
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Salmonella is another well-known bacteria that can be found in dog waste. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), this bacteria causes approximately 500 deaths each year in the United States. Symptoms of salmonellosis include fever, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, headaches, vomiting, nausea and chills.
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