Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease transmitted to dogs through contact with water or soil that has been contaminated by the urine of an infected animal.
It is prevalent in rural, suburban and urbanized areas, and the bacteria can be found in stagnant surface water, wet soil, and other water sources such as ponds and lakes.
Dogs can become infected by drinking, swimming in, or walking on a contaminated surface. Leptospirosis can also be transmitted from dog to dog.
Although it is commonly thought of as an outdoor dog disease, leptospirosis can infect any dog, large or small, regardless of where it resides -- even if it never goes outside.
Unfortunately, leptospirosis can also be transmitted from dogs to humans.
WHERE DID IT COME FROM?
Although leptospirosis has been known to be common in wild and rural animal populations, its crossover to dogs was generally limited to those living in rural areas or those used for hunting.
With the introduction of a vaccine in the 1970's, and as the use of the vaccine became commonplace, the prevalence of the disease in these dogs decreased significantly.
Unfortunately, the early vaccine contained agents that caused allergic reactions in dogs and, as a result, as the prevalence of leptospirosis declined, the use of the vaccine declined as well.
WHY IS IT A PROBLEM NOW?
Over the past decade, leptospirosis has re-emerged as a serious threat to dogs due to new strains of the disease and rapid urban expansion into formerly rural areas. The disease can be found in most wildlife in these areas, including raccoons, deer, opossums, skunks, rats and other rodents.
HOW DOES IT MAKE MY DOGS SICK?
Leptospirosis is a serious disease. Once it has entered the body, it invades the bloodstream and spreads to multiple sites, including the liver, spleen, kidneys, eyes, central nervous system, and urogenital tract. It produces toxins and enzymes that cause significant damage, often leading to organ failure and death.
The symptoms are also problematic because they are often vague or mimic other ailments, making the disease difficult to diagnose. Consquently, it often progresses undetected to stages that can be very difficult to treat.
WHAT ARE ITS SYMPTOMS?
Flu-like symptoms are most common, including: Fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, weakness, depression, and lethargy. Jaundice in the mouth and gums can also be present.
CAN IT BE TREATED?
Yes, but it may require a combination of therapies such as intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and other aggressive therapies. Unfortunately, diagnosing leptospirosis can be time-consuming and frustrating, and may be require multiple blood and urine tests, all of which can be costly.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY DOG?
We believe vaccination is your dog's best defense against leptospirosis. We now have a new vaccine that is both safe and effective, and our veterinarians are recommending that all dogs be vaccinated for leptospirosis on an annual basis. It can be given in combination with other routine vaccines or it can be given alone.
The vaccination protocol for leptospirosis involves a two-part series -- an initial vaccination, followed by a second booster vaccination four weeks later. Annual re-vaccination is all that is required to maintain protection from the disease.
VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS
If your dog has been seen by one of our veterinarians within the past twelve months and is currently healthy, an examination will not be required to receive the vaccine and it can be given on a walk-in basis.
If your dog has not had an annual exam within the past twelve months, a physical exam will be required.
Since leptospirosis is a contagious disease, as of September 1st, vaccination will be required for all dogs coming into our facility for boarding, grooming, obedience, and swimming services.
If you have additional questions about this disease, please ask us and we will be happy to address them. You can reach us a 303-708-8050.
