06/07/2025
Lepto on the loose!
Leptospirosis is a serious and potentially life-threatening bacterial disease that affects dogs — and it can also be transmitted to humans. It’s caused by Leptospira bacteria, which are found in water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals like rats, livestock, or even other dogs.
How Dogs Get Infected
Dogs can contract leptospirosis through:
✅Drinking from or swimming in contaminated water (like puddles, rivers, or canals)
✅Contact with infected urine or contaminated soil
✅Open wounds or broken skin that comes into contact with the bacteria
The risk is especially higher during rainy seasons or in areas with poor sanitation and lots of standing water.
Symptoms to Watch For
Leptospirosis can present a wide range of symptoms, from mild to severe, including:
✅Fever and chills
✅Vomiting and diarrhea
✅Lethargy or weakness
✅Loss of appetite
✅Muscle pain and stiffness
✅Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
✅Increased thirst or urination, or no urination at all (a sign of kidney failure)
In some cases, the disease progresses quickly and can cause liver or kidney failure, and even death if not treated early.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If leptospirosis is suspected, your vet will recommend blood tests, urine tests, and possibly imaging. Treatment usually involves:
✅Hospitalization and IV fluids
✅Antibiotics (like doxycycline or penicillin)
✅Supportive care for liver or kidney damage
Early detection makes a big difference — dogs that are treated promptly often recover well.
Prevention
✅Vaccination: Leptospirosis vaccines are available and recommended, especially in high-risk areas. The vaccine may need yearly boosters.
✅Avoid stagnant water: Don’t let your dog drink from or swim in unknown water sources.
✅Rodent control: Keep your surroundings clean to minimize rat activity.
✅Clean living space: Disinfect any area that may have been contaminated with infected urine.
Zoonotic Risk (Can Spread to Humans)
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease — meaning it can pass from dogs to people, typically through urine or contaminated environments. Good hygiene and careful handling of sick pets are crucial.
Leptospirosis is preventable, but when ignored, it can be deadly. If your dog suddenly seems ill, especially during the rainy season, don’t wait — consult your vet immediately. Prevention, awareness, and timely action save lives.