Leptospirosis is a disease that is caused by a preventable infection with a bacteria. It affects the liver and kidneys. We have a vaccination for it, which means it is often preventable. Leptospirosis has multiple different species and each species has multiple serovars. The vaccinations that veterinarians currently use for Leptospirosis will protect dogs with the five most common serovars.
How is Leptospirosis transmitted?
All mammals including humans can transmit Leptospirosis, but dogs most commonly get it from rodents, more specifically rats. Transmission can occur from ingesting (eating) infected rodent urine, bite wounds, but also some species of Leptospirosis can be transmitted by penetration of the skin. This means that if a dog goes into a body of water that has been contaminated, they can be infected through their skin and never have to actually ingest the bacteria. If a dog contracts Leptospirosis their urine is then infected, which means that transmission to their owners and other dogs in the house is possible.
What are the signs of Leptospirosis?
Kidney and liver are the main organs that are affected. Signs may be seen within 5 to 7 days of infection. Most often there is a fever present.
Kidney infection: Leptospirosis can cause acute kidney failure. The bacteria can be shed in the urine for weeks to months after infection. Signs of kidney failure include vomiting, anorexia, increased drinking and urination, blood in the urine. Dogs that survive infection may be left with chronic damage to their kidneys.
Liver infection: Leptospirosis can cause acute and chronic inflammation of the liver. This often results in jaundice or yellow color to the skin and mucous membranes. Loss of appetite and vomiting would likely be present.
Hemorrhage (bleeding): Bruising or small areas of bleeding into the skin would be noted. These can look like pin point blood spots in the skin, easiest to see on the gums in the mouth or inner aspects of the ear flaps. Nose bleeds, blood in urine and feces may also be seen. This form is often fatal.
Leptospirosis treatment
Treatment includes antibiotics and intravenous fluids. The chance of recovery is good if it is treated early. Often there is long term damage to the liver and kidneys.
LEPTOSPIROSIS IS PREVENTABLE!
As per the American Animal Hospital Association, “vaccination for the prevention of leptospirosis should be strongly considered for most dogs in North America as the disease can be life-threatening, is endemic in much of the continent, and is zoonotic (contagious to humans). In addition to protection from disease, vaccination may be necessary to meet state or international requirements for importation and transport of dogs.”
The leptospirosis vaccine should be given as a puppy starting at 12 weeks (to help prevent any adverse reactions) and boosted 2 to 4 weeks later. Annual vaccination after that is needed for continued protection.
Vaccination could save your dog’s life!
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