Salmonellosis

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                      General Information



Salmonellosis is a bacterial disease of the intestinal tract

caused by bacteria called Salmonella.  Animals are infected by

eating substances contaminated with the bacteria.  The organisms

are present in the feces of infected animals for up to 6 weeks

after recovery.  This organism is very hardy and can survive for

long periods in the environment.  Signs of salmonellosis include

vomiting, diarrhea with or without blood, fever and

dehydration.  Severe cases may be fatal.  The disease is most

common in young, stressed, weakened or aged animals.  Some dogs

can carry and spread the disease without showing signs of

illness.  Because cats are more resistant to the organism, they

are affected less often than dogs.



                  Public Health Significance



Because these bacteria can infect people, strict hygiene should

be practiced when handling infected animals.  Carefully dispose

of all fecal material.  Small children should not handle infected

pets.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Laboratory tests are necessary to diagnose salmonellosis and

    evaluate the response to treatment.  Many infected animals

    require hospitalization.



2.  Give all medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot give the medication.



3.  Frequent bathing is advisable to remove any fecal material

    that may have dried on the fur around the anus.  Your pet

    should be bathed every _____ days.



4.  Carefully dispose of all fecal material in the following

    manner:





5.  Diet:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Feed the normal diet.



    ____A special diet is required.  Feed as follows:





6.  Water:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Allow ready access to fresh water at all times.



    ____Restrict water intake as follows:





7.  Exercise:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Allow normal activity.



    ____Restrict exercise as follows:





       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet continues to vomit or have diarrhea.



    * Your pet has blood in the stool.



    * Your pet becomes depressed or shows new signs.



    * Your pet refuses to eat.