Sometimes, white spots may also be seen on these organs. There is no need to worry about the ticks which transmit the disease between hares. These ticks do not attach to humans. Wear rubber gloves when gutting hares, muskrats and beavers during warm weather months. Dogs and cats can die from tularemia.
Infected hares are easy for dogs and cats to catch.
Pets are infected when they eat the internal organs of infected hares. This disease is one reason why pets should not be allowed to roam free. Normal cooking temperatures kill bacteria in the meat. Therefore, it is safe to eat. However, human exposure typically occurs while gutting a hare.