23/04/2026
☔️ With all the rain recently, Leptospirosis is around. Annual vaccination is your best defense. If you are unsure if your pup is up to date, call us and we can check your records 09 4351924.
🌧️🐾 Leptospirosis Awareness: After the Rain Comes Risk 🐾🌧️
With recent heavy rain and flooding, there’s an increased risk of leptospirosis — a serious, potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that can affect both pets and people.
Leptospirosis spreads through water, soil, or surfaces contaminated with urine from infected animals (commonly rodents). Flooding creates the perfect environment for this bacteria to thrive and spread.
⚠️ Signs to watch for in your dog:
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
- Fever
- Increased thirst or urination
- Jaundice (yellowing of gums, eyes, or skin)
- Muscle pain or stiffness
These signs can develop quickly and worsen rapidly, so early recognition is critical.
Leptospirosis can also affect cats, though less commonly. The ARC Vets team are in the process of publishing a case report on an unusual clinical presentation in a cat. So, it does happen in NZ!
🚨 When should you see your vet?
If your dog (or cat) shows any of the above signs — especially after exposure to floodwater, puddles, or muddy environments — seek veterinary care immediately. Early treatment can be lifesaving.
💉 Prevention is key
Vaccination is the best way to protect your dog against leptospirosis. risk and the recommended protection can vary depending on lifestle and geography.
👉 Talk to your family vet about:
- Whether your dog is at risk
- Appropriate vaccination options
- Reducing exposure to contaminated water and environments
🐕 Simple precautions at home:
- Avoid letting dogs drink from puddles or stagnant water
- Keep food and water bowls clean and away from stagnant water outdoors
- Control rodent activity around your property
Leptospirosis may be uncommon, but it’s a serious and zoonotic disease — meaning it can spread to humans. Awareness, prevention, and early action can make all the difference.
If you’re unsure, reach out to your vet. Your family vet and ARC Vets are here to help keep your pets (and your family) safe 💙