TORONTO, ON – July 18, 2024 – In response to the recent flooding in Toronto on July 16, 2024, Toronto Humane Society is advising all pet guardians to take precautionary measures. The overflow of water has led to significant areas of standing water throughout the city, which could potentially pose health risks to pets, especially dogs.

“Our top priority is the well-being of our pets,” said Dr. Karen Ward, Chief Veterinary Officer at Toronto Humane Society. “Floodwaters may contain harmful pathogens and toxins. We recommend pet parents take steps to prevent their animals from coming into contact with standing water and to consult a veterinarian if any signs of illness are observed.”

Health Risks from Standing Water

Standing water can contain harmful bacteria, parasites, and chemicals that pose health risks if ingested by pets:

• Leptospirosis: Caused by Leptospira bacteria, this condition primarily affects dogs, with cat cases being rare and generally less severe. It can be contracted from water in rivers, lakes, streams, or standing water contaminated with urine from other animals or wildlife. Leptospira thrives in wet, moist environments and can spread to humans.
• Giardia: A microscopic protozoan parasite found in water contaminated by feces. It can be contracted from untreated sewage water or natural ponds contaminated by wildlife. Giardia is prevalent in cool, moist climates and can infect dogs, cats, and birds.
• Toxins: Standing water may also carry toxins such as motor oil, lawn chemicals, and antifreeze, which can cause illness if ingested. These toxins are more likely to spread with increased rainfall and runoff.

Practical Steps for Pet Parents

To mitigate risks associated with standing water, pet parents are advised to:

• Vaccination: Consider vaccinating your dog against leptospirosis, as the vaccine is effective against several strains of the bacteria for one year.
• Hydration: Ensure pets have access to clean, fresh water at all times to discourage them from drinking from potentially contaminated sources.
• Avoidance: Keep pets away from cold, deep, or potentially contaminated waters, particularly the prevalent standing water across the region.
• Regular Exams: Schedule annual wellness exams for your pet.

“As pet guardians, it’s natural to be concerned about water-borne diseases, but it’s important to remember that many are treatable and uncommon,” explains Dr. Ward. “By taking precautions and understanding the risks associated with water exposure, you can help ensure your dogs remain healthy and happy while enjoying activities like swimming.”

Symptoms to Monitor

If your pet displays any of the following symptoms, seek veterinary care promptly:

• Leptospirosis: Symptoms may include fever, shivering, muscle tenderness, increased thirst, changes in urination, dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, and eye inflammation. Other signs may include bleeding disorders resulting in blood-tinged vomit, urine, stool, or saliva, as well as nosebleeds.
• Giardia: Symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and lethargy.
• Toxin Ingestion: Symptoms can vary based on the type of toxin ingested and may include lethargy, vomiting, infection, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and abdominal discomfort.

About Toronto Humane Society

Toronto Humane Society’s mission is to improve the lives of animals. The organization excels in all ways an animal shelter should, with industry-leading shelter care, veterinary services, animal training and behaviour consultations. Toronto Humane Society believes in the importance of the human-animal bond, finds new homes for thousands of animals and helps keep families together.

Toronto Humane Society is more than an animal shelter. They are an educational resource and support system, a leading voice in animal welfare and accessible care. The organization is also a centre of excellence, a space where best practices and boundary-pushing knowledge meet with unyielding optimism and a love for animals to create something special. Toronto Humane Society is like no other. For more information, visit www.torontohumanesociety.com.

For more information, or to arrange an interview please contact Lucas Solowey at communications@torontohumanesociety.com or call 416-392-2273 ext. 2196