How do dogs get plague? - briefly
Dogs can contract the plague through contact with infected fleas or by consuming infected animals such as rodents or rabbits. The bacterium Yersinia pestis, which causes the plague, is transmitted via these routes.
How do dogs get plague? - in detail
Dogs can contract the plague through several means, primarily involving contact with infected animals or their environments. The plague is a bacterial infection caused by Yersinia pestis, which is commonly transmitted by fleas that feed on infected rodents, such as rats and squirrels.
When dogs encounter these infected fleas, either directly from the host animal or indirectly through contaminated bedding or nesting materials, they can become infested with the fleas themselves. The fleas then transmit Yersinia pestis to the dog during their blood meals. This initial infection is known as bubonic plague and typically presents with swollen lymph nodes, fever, and lethargy in dogs.
Additionally, if an infected dog ingests or comes into contact with contaminated tissue from a dead animal carrying Yersinia pestis, such as during scavenging behavior, the bacteria can enter the dog's system through the mouth or broken skin, leading to septicemic plague. This form of the disease affects the bloodstream and can rapidly spread throughout the body, causing severe illness and potentially death if not treated promptly with appropriate antibiotics.
Furthermore, close contact with an infected dog can result in the transmission of Yersinia pestis to other dogs or even humans through respiratory secretions. This is particularly relevant in cases of pneumonic plague, where the infection has spread to the lungs and can be transmitted via coughing or sneezing.
In summary, dogs acquire the plague primarily through flea bites from infected rodents or by ingesting contaminated tissue. Prompt veterinary care is essential for effective treatment and prevention of further spread.