LEPTOSPIROSIS IN YOUR DOG & YOU!
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What is Leptospirosis?

A bacterial disease that can be found in most animals including livestock (cattle, pigs, and sheep) and wildlife (deer, raccoons, opossums, skunks, rats and other rodents). The bacteria are passed via the urine into water sources where they reside and reproduce.

Is this a problem where I live?

Leptospirosis is prevalent in rural, suburban and urbanized areaas. The bacteria can be present in any stagnant surface water, moist soil and recreational waters sources such as ponds and lakes. Additionally, natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes present an increased risk of exposure to this disease.

Can my dog get leptospirosis?

*Your dog can become infected with leptospirosis by drinking, swimming in or walking through contaminated water. Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through a cut in the skin or mucous membranes such as eyes, nose or mouth.

*Leptospirosis is a contagious disease and can be transmitted from dog to dog. In urban areas, infected dogs can transmit the disease to otherwise-low-risk dogs.

*Exposure risk increases during the summer and early fall months and other periods of high rainfall.

Can cats catch this disease?

Although cats are potentially at risk, they appear to have natural resistance. For this reason, cats are not vaccinated for leptospirosis.

Can people get Leptospirosis?

*YES! The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that up to 200 human cases of leptospirosis a year are identified in the United States.

*While the disease is rarely fatal in humans, it can cause severe illness

*You may reduce disease risk by complying with the following preventative measures:

• Vaccinate your dog and livestock
• Avoid water that might be contaminated with the bacteria, especially water that is stagnant.
• Practice good sanitation, including washing your and your children's hands - especially when handling anything that might have your dog's urine on it.
• If your occupation or lifestyle involves routine exposure to wildlife or standing water, wear protective clothing to avoid exposure

What are the signs of Leptospirosis in Dogs?

• Flu like symptoms are most common, including:
  • Fever
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Dehydration
  • Weakness
  • Depression
  • Lethargy
• Jaundice, marked by a yellow cast in the gums of the mouth and whites of the eyes.

In the most severe cases, the disease can lead to kidney failure or liver failure and may be fatal.

How is it diagnosed & treated?

Because it can look like many other diseases, we'll need to examine your dog. This may require numerous urine and blood tests to achieve the correct diagnoses. If it is determined your dog does have the bacteris, we may recommend a combination of intravenous fluids and antibiotics as well as other aggressive therapies.

How can I protect my dog?

VACCINATE - VACCINATE!
Protection = Prevention!

Vaccinations are affordable, convenient and safe and can help you avoid the emotional and financial trauma of dealing with the disease itself! The most complete protection is with vaccines containing the four most common strains diagnosed today. These vaccines are routinely administered in combination with other common canine vaccines. Don't take the chance with your dog's life!

For additional information or feel you need to have your pet examined, give us a call!.

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