Officials in Pleasant Prairie find e-coli at a dog park.

Every Tuesday the Department of Public Works tests water samples from the pond inside Ingram Dog Park.

Last Tuesday's results showed e-coli levels in the advisory range.

Warnings signs have been posted along the pond so dog owners are aware.

It serves as a reminder for all pet owners in public spaces with animal waste that there's always a risk. 

E-coli is a bacterium commonly found in the intestines of humans and other animals, where it usually causes no harm.

Some strains can cause severe food poisoning, especially in old people and children.

The American Veterinary Association says social mixing with other dogs while often good for their behaviors also puts them at risk.

Especially when you don't know the other dog's medical history.

Diseases can be spread through direct contact between dogs, shared bowls and equipment, contaminated water, stool, insects and other methods.

People who visit these areas and interact with the dogs may also become infected with zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that can be spread from animals to people.

Larger studies on water pollution have  put dogs third or fourth on the list of contributors to bacteria in contaminated waters.

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