The disease can spread from dogs to humans (Image: Baz251286 via Getty Images)

Pet owners are encouraged remain alert for signs of a 'serious zoonotic disease' that can transmit from animals to people. Whilst the condition is fairly rare in the UK, cases typically emerge following periods of rain and flooding, which are more common during this season.

The disease in question is leptospirosis - a severe and potentially life-threatening condition triggered by bacterial strains called Leptospira. In canines, this can travel through the blood before lodging itself in the kidneys and liver.

Veterinary specialists at PDSA note that this illness can trigger numerous troubling symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing, jaundice, breathing difficulties and exhaustion, amongst others.

See Full Page