OVERLAND PARK, Kan., Aug. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Fort Dodge
Animal Health, a division of Wyeth (NYSE: WYE), today announced it has
added a dog owners' section on http://www.leptoinfo.com, a Web site dedicated to
providing information and resources to veterinarians and pet owners about
Leptospirosis, a growing canine health threat.
Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial disease of dogs, multiple animal
species and humans that occurs in countries around the world, including the
United States. Once a disease that primarily affected dogs living in rural
areas, leptospirosis is now considered a threat to dogs in suburban and
urban settings, perhaps due to increased opportunity for contact with
wildlife(1), a common carrier of leptospirosis. It is spread through the
urine of an infected animal and most dogs that venture outdoors are at risk
for leptospirosis.
The new section on leptoinfo.com is specifically designed to help
educate dog owners and answer many common questions about leptospirosis.
While on the site, dog owners can find out how to protect their dogs,
information about the disease, signs of illness, prevention strategies and
a list of frequently asked questions.
"Many pet owners are unaware of the serious danger leptospirosis poses
to dogs or that any dog that spends time outdoors could be susceptible,"
says Tom Lenz, DVM, MS, DACT, Vice President of Professional Services, Fort
Dodge Animal Health. "I encourage all dog owners to speak with their
veterinarian about this disease, as it can be prevented through
vaccination."
In addition to information about how leptospirosis can affect dogs, the
site helps educate pet owners about the risks the disease can pose to
humans. "As the risks of leptospirosis continue to increase, so does the
need for education, especially among dog owners who may not be aware
leptospirosis is not only a threat to their dog, but to their family as
well," says Dr. Lenz.
About Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a deadly bacterial disease spread by wildlife and
domestic animals. It is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be passed from
animals to people. All breeds and sizes of dogs are at risk. Common
leptospirosis carriers include raccoons, skunks, opossums, squirrels, rats
and other dogs. Livestock can also carry the disease. Leptospirosis should
be considered if a dog has a fever, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea
and/or lethargy. Early recognition is important for a full recovery.
About Fort Dodge Animal Health
Fort Dodge Animal Health, a division of Wyeth is a leading manufacturer
and distributor of animal health products for the companion animal, equine,
livestock, swine and poultry industries in North America and international
markets. As a committed partner to veterinary practitioners and animal
owners worldwide, Fort Dodge is making a difference through innovative
research and product development that address current and emerging animal
health needs. Key products include West Nile-Innovator(R) and the
Innovator(R) combination vaccines, the Duramune(R) and Fel-O-Vax(R) vaccine
lines, CYDECTIN(R), the Pyramid(R) and Triangle(R) vaccine lines, and
Quest(R) Gel. Wyeth's major divisions include Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, Wyeth
Consumer Healthcare and Fort Dodge Animal Health.
References
(1) Michael P. Ward, Lynn F. Guptill, Ching Ching Wu. Evaluation of
environmental risk factors for leptospirosis in dogs: 36 cases (1997-2002).
JAVMA, Vol. 225, No. 1, July 1, 2004.
SOURCE Wyeth
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Related links:
http://www.leptoinfo.com
http://www.wyeth.com
CONTACT:
Media, Kelly Gross, PR/Communications,
Office, +1-913-664-7276, or Cell, +1-913-375-4434,
grossk@fdah.com
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