Seattle officials: Don't let your dogs bother, eat salmon in local creeks

Seattle officials are warning dog owners that letting dogs eat salmon from local creeks can result in serious illness.

Spawning salmon have returned to Pacific Northwest creeks, officials said Thursday, directing to Piper’s Creek in Carkeek Park as one of the best viewing spots.

Dog owners are reminded to keep their dogs on leashes and out of creeks “for the safety of both the salmon and the dogs.”

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Officials said if dogs eat raw salmon, they can fall victim to salmon poisoning disease.

"Dogs can get salmon poisoning from eating raw salmon, trout, steelhead or salamanders that are infected with an internal parasite," said Dr. Jennifer Bennett. "Dogs often get sick a week or more after ingestion. Without treatment, the disease is fatal in 90 percent of dogs."

Salmon are also affected by dogs in their creeks. Dogs in the creeks can prevent salmon from reaching their spawning ground.

"Always keep your dog on leash when not in an off-leash area, and avoid salmon spawning grounds if you have your dog along," officials with the Seattle Animal Shelter and Seattle Parks and Recreation said. 

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