Keep your dogs away from dead fish, ODFW urges after several cases of salmon poisoning around Newport

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) – Several dogs were sickened from salmon poisoning around Newport recently, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife said this week, noting that salmon and trout carcasses may harbor bacteria in their blood that can be fatal to dogs.

Salmon poisoning is caused by the bacteria Neorickettsia helminthoeca, which is transmitted through a parasitic flatworm or "fluke." Without treatment, salmon poisoning in dogs is often fatal. Symptoms include severe vomiting and diarrhea. Fortunately, with treatment most dogs will survive.

The bacteria can infect a dog after they eat, bite, or even lick an infected fish carcass. ODFW Veterinarian Julia Burco cautions that symptoms may begin showing 5-7 days after exposure. "A lot of time you may notice your dog not being as bouncy as it was." Burco said.

Dog owners should be vigilant about keeping their dogs away from dead fish, especially from September through December. If you see your dog eating a dead salmon or trout, or even around one, take them to the veterinarian right away.

Don't wait for your dog to get sick, as prophylactic treatments can prevent a more serious illness. The sooner your dog gets treated, the less likely they will get sick and need expensive treatments.

Burco advises pet owners to keep their dogs on a leash and in sight to prevent them from coming across fish carcasses. Collect and bag up all garbage associated with cleaning fish, clean your coolers and gear and do not leave fish parts spread on the landscape that dogs could encounter.

The highest risk of salmon poisoning is usually September when salmon gather in rivers to spawn and die. These cases early in the year are unusual.

Wesley Shum's dog, Ukee, was sickened after a trout fishing trip to a lake in June. "She went from being an energetic puppy to lethargic and would barely get up off the couch. She lost her appetite and then she started throwing up every time she drank water."

The vet tested for salmon poisoning and results showed that she had the flukes that carry the bacteria in her fecal matter. Ukee spent five days at the emergency vet and has since recovered and returned to her energetic self.

An avid trout fisherman, Wesley said he is diligent in keeping things clean, but noted that even the smallest amount of blood or fish slime left on a boot can expose a dog to salmon poisoning.