We are currently treating 3 dogs who have tested positive for leptospirosis. We would like to keep our pet parents informed about the disease and what precautions should be taken.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can be deadly. Lepto can cause severe, sometimes permanent, damage to the liver and kidneys of dogs, humans, and other animals. The bacteria is spread through the urine of infected rodents, squirrels. chipmunks, raccoons, opossums, and other common wildlife.
Your dog can develop leptospirosis after contact with water or soil contaminated with the bacteria. Humans can also be infected via contact with contaminated urine, water, or soil.
Initial clinical signs and symptoms of lepto in dogs may include flu-like symptoms (fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, weakness, and muscle pain.) Severe cases can lead to damage of the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system.
To reduce the risk of your dog acquiring lepto we recommend vaccination, avoiding stagnant water, and thoroughly washing your hands after touching anything that may have had urine on it.
The vaccination is initially a series of 2 vaccines given 2 – 4 weeks apart and then a yearly booster. We are recommending that all dogs be vaccinated regardless of breed.
Please visit www.cdc.gov/leptospirosis/ or call our office for more information.
