Leptospirosis

With winter in our past, many people and their pets are happy to be outdoors experiencing the joys that spring and summer bring. But these warmer months can also bring unwanted illnesses. Ticks and mosquitoes aside, there is another infection that can be detrimental to not only our pet’s health, but ours as well.

Leptospirosis, sometimes referred to as “lepto,” is an infectious disease that can cause kidney failure, liver damage, and possibly death if left untreated. It is caused by a spirochete bacterium known as Leptospira, and is primarily transmitted by contact with, or ingestion of the urine of animals infected with the disease. There are a wide variety of animals who can become infected and transmit the disease. This ranges from mice and rats to bigger wildlife such as raccoons, foxes, coyotes, and deer, livestock such as cows and horses, and of course other dogs. Cats are more resistant and, if they become ill, their infections tend to be mild. In our canine companions, the risk of exposure can occur through swimming in ponds, drinking from puddles that contain infected urine, or even when dogs lick their paws after coming in from a walk.  Once an animal with the infection urinates, shedding leptospirosis, the bacteria can survive in the environment for months. 

Leptospirosis is present throughout the United States, as well as other parts of the world. It is most commonly diagnosed between June and December, especially after heavy rain. Dogs that contract leptospirosis tend to develop a fever, drink and urinate excessively, become jaundiced, and have abdominal pain and vomiting. Veterinarians can diagnose this disease by testing a blood sample to look for the presence of antibodies to leptospirosis. Once diagnosed, leptospirosis is treated with antibiotics and intravenous fluids. The prognosis is guarded if there has already been severe kidney and liver damage but improves with early detection and treatment.

One concerning characteristic of leptospirosis is that it is zoonotic, meaning that it can be transmitted to and cause disease in humans. In the veterinary world, this means wearing protective clothing and gloves when caring for patients with leptospirosis, as well as thorough disinfection with solutions containing bleach. Dogs can continue to shed the bacteria after being treated, so it is important to take preventive measures even after your dog has been discharged from the hospital. Frequent handwashing and meticulously cleaning areas contaminated with urine (while wearing gloves) are crucial in preventing spread of this disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that approximately 30% of human leptospirosis infections come from contact with infected dogs.  Humans develop similar symptoms as dogs do, starting with a fever, and may not develop symptoms until up to four weeks after exposure. 

As with many other aspects of veterinary care, prevention is key. A leptospirosis vaccine is available for dogs. This vaccine reduces the risk of developing disease and can also decrease its severity if contracted. Dogs with a low risk of exposure do not require vaccination, but it is recommended for those who spend a lot of time outdoors, especially with access to standing water, or dogs who spend a lot of time around farms and livestock. It is also recommended in dogs that live in an area with a high rodent population. Discuss with your veterinarian if the vaccination is right for your dog.