2 dogs infected with rare, deadly salmon poisoning disease at Tacoma Humane Society

TACOMA, Wash. — Two dogs are currently receiving care at the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County (HSTPC) for salmon poisoning disease.

6-month-old Rogue and 15-week-old Brick arrived at the shelter on March 12, said the HSTPC in a news release.

Both dogs were severely ill and experiencing diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, lack of appetite, and extreme weakness.

Veterinary testing confirmed both dogs had salmon poisoning disease.

“The mortality rate of this disease is often really high,” said Dr. Katherine Spaulding, associate shelter veterinarian at the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County. “If left untreated, dogs usually succumb to the disease within seven to ten days.”

The disease is around 90% fatal to dogs and is unique to the Pacific Northwest. It comes from a bacteria in a parasite that hosts raw salmon and other fish.

The dog eating the raw fish leads to sickness.

Rogue and Brick have gotten round-the-clock care with antibiotics, anti-parasitic medications, fluids, and constant monitoring, said the release. They are slowly showing signs that they are feeling better, but they still have a long way to go.

The Humane Society is asking for donations to cover the medical costs and for future dogs that need emergency care. To donate go here.

©2023 Cox Media Group