Plague is probably the most significant disease that these pests carry. The pathogen spreads easily in damp, cold seasons. A prairie dog bite is painful, but surprisingly not the primary form of disease transmission. The bite of a plague-infected flea is more likely, as these parasites travel on the rodents and discreetly infect humans and pets. Any contact with the tissue or fluids of an animal stricken with plague is dangerous. This means accidentally touching prairie dog poop, urine, saliva, or fur is unsafe. Plague is treatable but can become deadly if not promptly addressed. Symptoms include: Pain Fever Chills Weakness