Jersey’s States vet has advised dog owners to have their pets vaccinated after one was infected with a potentially fatal disease.
It follows New Era Veterinary Hospital announcing a case of leptospirosis had been confirmed in an unvaccinated dog on the island.
The hospital said the bacterial infection can affect both animals and humans.
Jersey’s States vet Susana Ramos said cases were “relatively infrequent” but are seen occasionally.
Ramos said: “The best way to prevent leptospirosis in dogs is to vaccinate. Please discuss vaccination with your private vet.”
Leptospirosis is spread through the urine of infected animals, including rats, and dogs can become infected through contaminated water or soil.
The illness can be serious and in some cases fatal, with symptoms in dogs including vomiting, diarrhoea, tiredness, loss of appetite and increased thirst.