Canine leptospirosis is a serious bacterial infection that poses a significant health risk to dogs.
This guide will help dog owners understand the infection, what signs to look out for, and protection measures, including vaccination and prevention tips.
Understanding this disease is key to ensuring the long-term health and well-being of your canine companion.
What is leptospirosis in dogs?
Leptospirosis is caused by the Leptospira bacteria, which thrive in warm, wet environments.
Dogs can become infected through direct contact with contaminated water, soil, or the urine of infected animals such as rats and livestock.
The bacteria can enter your dog’s body through cuts, ingestion, or even through mucous membranes like the eyes and nose.
Stages of leptospirosis
Canine leptospirosis can progress in several stages, depending on the severity of the infection:
Stage 1: Incubation
After exposure, it can take between 2 to 12 days for symptoms to appear.
Stage 2: Acute Phase
Bacteria will spread through the bloodstream, causing high fever, lethargy, and other early signs of illness.
Stage 3: Immune Phase
The dog’s immune system starts to fight the infection, which may result in symptoms worsening or, in mild cases, resolving.
Stage 4: Chronic Phase
If not treated early, leptospirosis can lead to long-term organ damage, particularly in the liver and kidneys.
Leptospirosis symptoms
Leptospirosis can be difficult to diagnose based on symptoms alone, as they can mimic other conditions.
Common symptoms include:
- Fever and lethargy
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle pain or stiffness
- Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin)
- Excessive drinking and urination (a sign of kidney involvement)
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, contact us immediately for a check-up and further testing.
Treatment of leptospirosis
If you suspect your dog has leptospirosis, contact your vet immediately to begin treatment and prevent serious organ damage.
Antibiotics are the primary form of treatment to eliminate the bacteria from the bloodstream. Longer-term antibiotics may also be prescribed to ensure the bacteria has been completely eradicated.
Your dog may need supportive care such as IV fluids, medications for vomiting or diarrhoea, and close monitoring of kidney and liver function.
How to prevent leptospirosis in dogs
Prevention is far easier than treating it, and some key preventive measures include:
- Vaccinations – the best way to prevent infection.
- Avoiding stagnant water sources – don’t let your dog swim or drink from stagnant ponds or puddles.
- Keep away from rodents – they are more susceptible to carry the bacteria.
Will my dog react to a leptospirosis vaccine?
Most dogs tolerate the leptospirosis vaccine well. However, mild side effects can include temporary lethargy, soreness at the injection site, mild fever and a reduced appetite for a day or two.
Severe reactions are rare, but if your dog exhibits swelling, difficulty breathing, or extreme lethargy, contact your vet immediately.
How often does my dog need to be vaccinated for leptospirosis?
The leptospirosis vaccine is typically administered annually, though puppies may need a series of initial shots before transitioning to a yearly booster.
Always consult with your vet to ensure your dog’s vaccination schedule is up-to-date.
Discover more about pet vaccinations here.
Is leptospirosis contagious?
Yes, leptospirosis is highly contagious and can spread between animals and humans.
Humans can contract leptospirosis through contact with an infected dog’s urine or contaminated water. Dog owners should always practice good hygiene, wear gloves when cleaning up after their dogs, and seek medical advice if they suspect exposure.
Leptospirosis is less common in cats, but contamination is still possible if they share the same environment as an infected dog.
It’s best to ensure that both your dogs and cats are protected through proper preventative measures.
How long is a dog with leptospirosis contagious?
Dogs with leptospirosis can shed the bacteria in their urine for weeks to months after infection, even if they appear to have recovered.
Quarantining your dog and ensuring proper sanitation during recovery is essential to prevent the spread of the disease to other animals or humans.
Knowing when to contact your vet
If you suspect your dog may have been exposed to leptospirosis or if they exhibit any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s critical to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
Early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in aiding your dog’s recovery.
At Aldgate Vets, we are committed to keeping your pets healthy and safe. If you have questions about leptospirosis, vaccines, or your dog’s overall health, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to request more information.
Spread the cost of your routine appointments
Did you know our Pet Health Plan covers the cost of your annual vaccinations and includes a health check? Prices start from £11 – find out more information here.
Special offer for October
To reduce the amount of cases we are seeing at our practice, we are running a special offer to get your dogs vaccinations up to date. Pay just £65 instead of £100 for a full vaccine restart, to keep your dogs healthy and happy.
To book this appointment, please call us at either our Driffield or Bridlington practice*.
*Offers ends 31st October 2024. Terms and conditions apply.
