Common Pet Ailments in Northern BC: Zoonotic Diseases in Pets

Zoonotic diseases — infections that can spread from animals to humans — are a real concern for pet owners in Northern British Columbia. These illnesses can be caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, or fungi, and while many are rare, regional environmental factors and abundant wildlife mean pet owners here must be especially vigilant. Understanding common zoonotic diseases, how they’re transmitted, and what you can do to protect both your pets and your family is critical for maintaining a healthy household.

What Are Zoonotic Diseases?

Zoonotic diseases (or zoonoses) are infections that animals can carry and transmit to humans. These illnesses range from relatively mild gastrointestinal upset to potentially life-threatening conditions like rabies. In fact, over 60% of human infectious diseases originate from animals, and most of the emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic in nature.

Because pets share our homes and often interact with local wildlife or environmental sources, it’s important to know which diseases pose a risk and how to minimize that risk.

Common Zoonotic Diseases in Northern BC

Rabies

Cause: Rabies is a deadly viral infection affecting the nervous system. In British Columbia, the primary natural reservoir is bats, and the virus is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals via bites or scratches.

Treatment: Once clinical signs appear in humans or animals, there is no effective treatment — making preventative action essential. If exposure is suspected, immediate post-exposure prophylaxis is critical.

Prevention: Keep your pet’s rabies vaccinations up to date. Avoid contact with wildlife, especially bats, and supervise pets outdoors to reduce encounters.

Leptospirosis

Cause: Leptospirosis is caused by Leptospira bacteria and can be spread through contact with contaminated water, soil, or urine from infected wildlife. Pets can contract the disease when drinking from stagnant water or playing near wet environments frequented by animals.

Treatment: A veterinarian treats leptospirosis with antibiotics and supportive care. Early diagnosis significantly improves outcomes.

Prevention: Vaccination is recommended for at-risk pets. Additionally, avoid letting your pet drink from untreated water sources and limit access to areas where wildlife urine may contaminate the ground or water.

Giardiasis

Cause: This illness is caused by the protozoan Giardia. Pets become infected by ingesting cysts in contaminated water or food, or through contact with infected feces.

Treatment: Antiprotozoal medications prescribed by your vet are effective, and supportive care helps pets stay hydrated and comfortable.

Prevention: Provide clean drinking water at all times and discourage pets from drinking from stagnant sources. Promptly pick up and dispose of feces in your yard to lower environmental contamination.

Echinococcosis

Cause: This parasitic disease stems from Echinococcus tapeworms. Dogs can become carriers by eating infected rodents. Humans can accidentally ingest eggs through contaminated soil or hands.

Treatment: Pets are treated with deworming medications, while humans may require surgery and long-term antiparasitic therapy for certain forms of the disease.

Prevention: Regular deworming, controlling pets’ rodent hunting behaviours, and maintaining hygiene can dramatically reduce risk.

Hookworm Infection (Uncinaria stenocephala)

Cause: Hookworms live in the intestines of dogs and may infect humans through skin exposure to contaminated soil.

Treatment: Veterinarians treat hookworm infections with specific anthelmintic (deworming) medications.

Prevention: Regular fecal testing and deworming, along with proper disposal of pet waste and keeping living areas clean, help reduce transmission.

Other Potential Zoonotic Risks

Although not the main focus of this blog, it’s worth noting that pets can carry other zoonoses such as ringworm (a fungal infection), salmonellosis, and campylobacter infections — all of which can spread to humans via direct contact, fecal-oral routes, or contaminated surfaces.

Why Pet Owners in Northern BC Should Stay Vigilant

Because pets in Northern British Columbia may interact with wildlife or untreated environmental sources more frequently than in urban areas, the risk of exposure to zoonotic pathogens can be higher. However, with awareness and preventive care, these risks can be managed effectively.

General Prevention Tips for Every Pet Owner

1. Regular Veterinary Care

Routine check-ups ensure pets are up to date on vaccinations and parasite prevention plans tailored to your pet’s lifestyle.

2. Good Hygiene Practices

Wash hands thoroughly after handling pets, cleaning up waste, or playing outside. Sanitize pet bedding and living spaces regularly.

3. Limit Wildlife Interactions

Keeping pets on leashes and within secure outdoor areas reduces their chances of contact with wild animals carrying zoonotic pathogens.

4. Public Awareness

Talk to your children and family members about safe interaction with pets and wildlife. Teaching good habits early helps protect everyone at home.

Why Choose Ospika Animal Hospital?

At Ospika, we take zoonotic disease prevention seriously. We offer comprehensive vaccination programs, routine testing, parasite control plans, and personalized education to help safeguard both your pet and your family. Our experienced team is here to support you with practical advice and care tailored to Northern BC lifestyles and environmental realities.

Protecting your pet means protecting your whole household — human and animal alike. Schedule a visit with us today to ensure your furry family members stay healthy and safe year-round.