by Angie Pollock

Created on: August 13, 2009

Leptospirosis is a precarious bacterial disease that comes in a variety of types. Spread through infected urine of different wild animals including skunks and raccoons, a dog will become infected when they come into contact with the urine. Dogs have a tendency for sniffing and licking objects in their environment which can make prevention almost impossible. Recently, the cases of dogs infected with leptospirosis have increased and to maximize the seriousness of this disease, leptospirosis can also infect humans.

This infectious disease is caused by a number of serotypes like grippotyphosa, pomona, icterohaemorrhagiae, and canicola. Dogs simply inhaling in the bacteria is not the only contact issue since leptospirosis can also infiltrate the skin and mucous membranes. If your beloved pet happens to wander on an area that is contaminated with the infected urine, your dog and you are vulnerable to catching the disease.

Clinical Signs and Symptoms

Dogs that have been infected with leptospirosis will be noticeably sick. Common outward signs include lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, and/or diarrhea. As the bacteria travels through the system, the kidneys and/or liver can become affected causing a fever and abdominal pain. Owners may begin to notice hemorrhaging just under the skin and bleeding may even begin internally.

Leptospirosis is so severe that the symptoms can appear quite quickly and some dogs will die before treatment can be administered. Because the symptoms mimic other diseases and illnesses, diagnosis can come too late for your pet. A veterinarian should take urine samples to check for signs of the bacteria and inquire on the dog's history including where he has recently roamed.

Treatment

Luckily, leptospirosis responds to antibiotic treatment most specifically tetracycline and doxycycline. Once your dog has been diagnosed with this bacterial infection, treatment should begin immediately to avoid damage to the liver and/or kidneys. Antibiotic treatment may last for an extended amount of time to aid in the prevention of a carrier state. Depending upon the severity of the infection, a dog may require supportive care which can include hospitalization for administering intravenous fluids and other medications to help reduce the chances of kidney and/or liver damage.

Prevention

A fairly new bacterin (vaccine) has been developed that aids in preventing leptospirosis which is far superior to other, older vaccines that were available. Previous forms of this vaccine had a high occurrence of allergic reactions in dogs. Other less reliable alternatives include keeping your pet out of areas where wild animals roam or securing your property to keep wildlife at bay.

Leptospirosis is believed to become more widespread due to people moving into areas inhabited by wildlife like rats and raccoons. Dog owners that reside in areas populated by wild animals should seriously consider having their dogs vaccinated for this disease. You and your veterinarian can discuss the options available including whether your pet needs vaccinated for the disease and how often.

References:

THE EVERYTHING DOG HEALTH BOOK, by Kim Campbell Thornton & Debra Eldredge, D.V.M. copyright 2005.

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