Leptospirosis
Our guide has been authored by qualified veterinarians, but should not be taken as substitute for medical advice or professional veterinary consultation. If your pet displays any unusual symptoms, we strongly advise seeking guidance from a veterinarian
Understanding Leptospirosis in Dogs
This infectious disease is caused by bacteria and is transmitted through contaminated urine. There are various strains of Leptospirosis, each one related to different animal carriers. Leptospirosis often causes serious illness, affecting multiple organs, including the liver and kidneys. The disease is contagious to humans and demands that owners stay alert and protected.
The story of Roy
Roy is an 8-year-old mixed Pinscher who loves roaming the neighborhood. When his owner, Shelly, noticed he wasn’t his usual energetic self, she thought he was finally growing out of his puppyhood. But after a few days, when Roy wouldn’t even get up for his favorite treat, Shelly worriedly took Roy to the vet. Initial tests showed a fever and jaundice (skin yellowing), and further bacteriological analysis found that Roy was suffering from Leptospirosis. The dog was hospitalized and received IV fluids and medications. Days later, Roy was discharged from the hospital for home care. The vet instructed Shelly to stay away from his pee, take cleaning precautions, and isolate him. A few weeks later, his blood tests showed he had completely recovered.
Causes of Leptospirosis: Uncovering Triggers
Dogs might become infected through contact with contaminated urine. The typical carriers for dogs are rodents, cattle, and other dogs. The bacteria will penetrate the body via the skin (mainly through open wounds), via contaminated water sources, or when a dog sniffs contaminated urine during walks.
Recognizing Leptospirosis: Signs and Symptoms
- Lethargy, weakness, depression, loss of interest or appetite
- Fever
- Increased drinking and urination
- Changes in urinary habits
- Yellowing of the eyes, gums, and exposed skin areas such as the groin or abdomen
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Changes in the dog’s eye color
- Bleeding from the dog’s nose or anus
Leptospirosis Diagnosis: How it's Identified
A diagnosis typically occurs when a dog suffers from the above symptoms and the following test results:
- A high white blood cell count.
- When liver damage is present, high levels of liver and bile enzymes, an increase in the bilirubin levels, and low liver function causing low sugar, cholesterol, and protein levels.
- When kidney damage occurs, we’ll see poorly concentrated urine. High creatinine and urea levels indicate low kidney function capabilities.
- Low clotting functions are an additional symptom.
- Serological tests will show the bacteria responsible for Leptospirosis by measuring relevant antibody levels. Since this may take a couple of weeks, it typically requires more than a single test to detect “serological conversion”, increasing antibody levels over time. Microscopic and PCR tests can detect the bacteria as well.
Treating Leptospirosis: Options and Approaches
Prevention:
Fortunately, a vaccine against Leptospirosis offers robust protection, albeit for a relatively short period. The vaccine doesn’t cover every strain of the disease, but does address the main ones.
Treatment:
- This bacteria responds well to antibiotics, mainly doxycycline. A 2- to 4-week-long treatment (in some cases six) is effective, but the infected animal may remain a lifelong carrier.
- Severe cases demand proper supportive care that includes fluid administration and medication to assist with the damage caused by the disease.
- Severe kidney failure may require dialysis.
Leptospirosis: Surprising Facts
Leptospirosis is an incredibly diverse bacteria, with species that include no less than 250 strains!
Various mammals, including rodents, cattle, pigs, wild animals, dogs, and cats carry these strains. They might cause severe illness when transmitted to other animals.
While transmission to humans is relatively rare, it is still possible. Owners should be careful and alert when caring for an infected pet.
Vet's Tip: Dealing with Leptospirosis
While vaccines against viral diseases such as Parvovirus, Distemper, and Rabies offer long-term protection, the inactivated Leptospirosis vaccine is weaker. It only protects your pet for up to a year. This makes annual vaccinations particularly critical, especially for animals at high risk.
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The strains included in the vaccine are chosen based on the disease frequency in a particular region and the level of protection needed. They may change over time.
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