BRAZIL, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)— A local vet is warning about an illness that has seen an increase in numbers recently, and it affects not only pets, but people too. It's called Leptospirosis.

It's a bacterial infection that animals, commonly dogs, can get from contaminated water. The infection can cause issues ranging from mild flu-like symptoms, all the way to organ issues, like liver or kidney failure. John Shepherd, a vet at Four Loving Paws Veterinary Services in Brazil, said symptoms can be acute and include drinking and peeing a lot. He said there is a vaccine that is recommended for all dogs, starting when they're over 11 weeks old, regardless of their exposure risk.

"Vaccination is the proven way to go," said Shepard. "After this, we can do so much to minimize the risk outside, but a l

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