Leptospirosis (Lepto for short) is a serious bacterial disease of dogs, livestock, many other animals, as well as humans.  While found in temperate and tropical countries around the world, it has become more common here in Canada - especially in suburbs and rural areas.  The Leptospira bacterium are usually spread through the urine of infected animals, although it can also be passed from mother to babies, or via bite wounds, and eating infected tissue.  Dogs typically become infected when they come into contact with wet grass, soil, puddles, streams or ponds that have been contaminated by infected animals.  Those that may be infected iclude: raccoons, skunks, rats, squirrels, foxes, coyotes, deer, livestock and other dogs.

What are the symptoms in dogs?

Some dogs never display any signs of illness and may just be carriers of the disease.  Others may suffer from a lack of energy and show signs of depression. They may display any or all of the following: anorexia, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, jaundice & kidney infection.  If not treated, some dogs become very ill and can even die.  The lepto bacterium eliminated in the urine of infected dogs in large numbers for long periods of time, also poses a risk to humans.

How do you diagnose Lepto?

If lepto is suspected, laboratory testing is recommended.  Your veterinary team will be looking at a complete blood cell count, blood biochemistry profile and a urine test. The tests are run to evaluate the red and white blood cells, liver & kidney functions and the hydration status.

Lepto CAN be treated with antibiotics - but depending on how severely affected you dog is, it may need to be hospitalized and placed on intravenous fluids for a few days to correct dehydration.  During treatment, infected animals should be isolated to prevent accidental contact with others. Humans should be cautious when handling infected urine; gloves, facemask, goggles may be used when disinfecting contaminated areas, as well as diluted bleach.

How do you prevent Lepto?

The best precaution is to have your veterinary team vaccinate you dog against as many strains of lepto as possible.  While there are approximately 200 strains, in Canada only 5 or 6 strains may cause disease.  Most vaccines contain 4 or less strains.  The first time your dog is vaccinated against lepto, they will require a booster 3-4 weeks later to ensure full protection against those strains.  Otherwise a yearly booster will be required after that. 

For that reason, it makes sense to always take the following precautions:

·         Remove food, garbage, and nesting materials from your yard to minimize wildlife activity,

·         Discourage your dog from drinking from standing water

·         Wash your hands thoroughly after after 'pooping & scooping' at all times (We need to be reminded of this?)

It's of utmost importance to contact your veterinary team regarding any questions you might have about your pet’s health. Prevention is always the best medicine.   Lexy