Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial infection that poses a risk to both pets and humans, making awareness and prevention vital. At Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic, we’re dedicated to keeping your pets healthy by providing critical information about this disease. Caused by Leptospira bacteria, leptospirosis can lead to severe damage to the kidneys, liver, and other essential organs, and in some cases, it can be life-threatening.
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The bacteria are shed in the urine of infected animals and can survive in warm, stagnant water or moist soil for extended periods. Dogs are particularly vulnerable, often contracting the disease through exposure to wildlife such as skunks, raccoons, opossums, rats, and other dogs. While leptospirosis in cats is rare, dogs face a higher risk, especially if they frequent environments with contaminated water or soil.
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How Common is Leptospirosis?
Although less common in dogs that are regularly vaccinated, leptospirosis outbreaks still occur since vaccines only protect against the four most prevalent strains of Leptospira. Previously more common in rural and wooded areas, the disease has now spread to urban settings. North Vancouver Vet
How Do Dogs Become Infected?
Rats and other rodents are the primary carriers of Leptospira bacteria, but nearly any mammal, including humans, can act as carriers. Dogs typically become infected when they come into contact with contaminated water or soil, which enters their system through mucous membranes or broken skin. For example, a dog walking in mud with a skin lesion could become infected. Other transmission methods include bites, ingesting infected animals, sexual contact, and mother-to-puppy transmission. The incubation period usually ranges from four to twelve days. North Vancouver Vet
Recognizing the Symptoms
Leptospirosis symptoms vary widely. Some infections are mild or asymptomatic, while others can lead to severe, life-threatening complications. Common symptoms include a sudden loss of appetite, lethargy, and high fever. The bacteria primarily target the kidneys and liver but can also affect other organs, such as the lungs. North Vancouver Vet
Leptospirosis can cause a range of clinical signs depending on the organs affected. Kidney damage often leads to vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst and urination, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, a complete lack of urination. Liver involvement may present as vomiting, diarrhea, and jaundice, which is characterized by yellowing of the gums, skin, or eyes. Additionally, leptospirosis can impact other systems, causing symptoms such as skin thickening, fluid buildup in the limbs or abdomen, coughing up blood, and small bruises or hemorrhages on the skin or in the eyes. Dogs may also experience stiffness, reluctance to move, or eye discomfort. North Vancouver Vet
Diagnosing Leptospirosis North Vancouver Vet
Leptospirosis can be challenging to diagnose, as its symptoms often mimic other conditions. Diagnosis begins with a review of your dog’s symptoms and a physical exam. Additional diagnostic tests may include blood work, urinalysis, X-rays, ultrasounds, and clotting tests. If leptospirosis is suspected, specific tests like DNA-PCR and microscopic agglutination tests (MATs) can confirm the infection.
Treatment Options
Early treatment is essential for successful recovery. Antibiotics such as penicillin, ampicillin, or amoxicillin are effective against the acute infection. However, many dogs require hospitalization for supportive care, including IV fluids, oxygen therapy, plasma transfusions, and in severe cases, hemodialysis. Once stabilized, a longer course of antibiotics, usually doxycycline, is prescribed to eliminate residual bacteria and prevent the dog from becoming a carrier. Follow-up tests help monitor recovery. North Vancouver Vet
Preventing Leptospirosis
Vaccination is the most effective prevention. At Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic, we recommend the leptospirosis vaccine as part of your dog’s routine care. Annual boosters are necessary to maintain immunity. The current four-serovar vaccine is safe and highly effective, with no higher risk of side effects than other core vaccines. Even dogs that have recovered from leptospirosis should be vaccinated, as natural immunity duration is uncertain. Reducing exposure to high-risk environments and wildlife, particularly rodents, also lowers the risk. North Vancouver Vet
Can Humans Get Leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from animals to humans. It is one of the most widespread zoonotic infections globally, with heightened risk following heavy rains, floods, or hurricanes. If your dog is diagnosed, avoid direct contact with their urine, wear gloves when cleaning up after them, and disinfect any soiled areas.
At Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic, your pet’s health and safety are our top priorities. If you have questions about leptospirosis or want to schedule a vaccination, don’t hesitate to contact us. Together, we can protect your furry friend from this serious disease. North Vancouver Vet