Leptospirosis – most common in areas with warm climates and high annual rainfall, such as Jacksonville
What is Leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis is a disease caused by infection with a type of bacteria called Leptospira. This bacterial disease can affect humans and pets, and causes a wide range of symptoms including flu-like illness and even serious damage to the kidney and liver. Leptospirosis is usually caused by exposure to water where pets or wildlife have been. This disease is more common in areas with warm climates and high annual rainfall, such as Jacksonville, but it can occur anywhere. Dogs are most commonly affected. Leptospirosis in cats is rare and appears to be mild although very little is known about the disease in this species.
How are pets infected?
Common risk factors for Leptospirosis in dogs residing in the US include exposure to or drinking from rivers, lakes or streams; roaming on rural properties (because of exposure to potentially infected wildlife, farm animals, or water sources); exposure to wild animal or farm animal species, even if in the backyard; and contact with rodents or other dogs. The Leptospira bacteria can survive in the environment for long periods of time in warm, stagnant water or moist soil. Dogs can become infected if their mucous membranes (or skin with any wound, such as a cut or scrape) come into contact with infected urine, urine-contaminated soil, water, food or bedding; through a bite from an infected animal; by eating infected tissues or carcasses; and rarely, through breeding. It can also be passed through the placenta from the mother dog to the puppies.
What are the symptoms?
Signs of Leptospirosis may include fever, shivering, muscle tenderness, reluctance to move, increased thirst, changes in the frequency or amount of urination, dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes), or painful inflammation within the eyes. The disease can cause kidney failure with or without liver failure. Dogs may occasionally develop severe lung disease and have difficulty breathing. Leptospirosis can cause bleeding disorders, which can lead to blood-tinged vomit, urine, stool or saliva; nosebleeds; and pinpoint red spots (which may be visible on the gums and other mucous membranes or on light-colored skin). Affected dogs can also develop swollen legs (from fluid accumulation) or accumulate excess fluid in their chest or abdomen.
How do Veterinarians Diagnose and Treat Leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis may be suspected based on the pet’s exposure history and symptoms, however many of these signs can also be seen with other diseases. In addition to a physical examination, your veterinarian may recommend a number of other tests such as blood tests, urine tests, x-rays, and an ultrasound examination.
Leptospirosis is generally treated with antibiotics and supportive care. When treated early and aggressively, the chances for recovery are good but there is still a risk of permanent residual kidney or liver damage.
Can people catch Leptospirosis from their pets?
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, which means it can be spread from animals to people. Infection in people can cause flu-like symptoms and can cause liver or kidney disease. In the US, most cases of human Leptospirosis result from recreational activities involving water. Infection resulting from contact with an infected pet is much less common, but it is possible.
Although an infected pet dog presents a low risk of infection to humans, there is still some risk. If your dog has been diagnosed with Leptospirosis, take the following precautions to protect yourself:
- Administer antibiotics as prescribed by your veterinarian;
- Avoid contact with your dog’s urine;
- If your dog urinates in your home, quickly clean the area with a household disinfectant and wear gloves to avoid skin contact with the urine;
- Encourage your dog to urinate away from standing water or areas where people or other animals will have access;
- Wash your hands after handling your pet.
How Can I Reduce My Pet’s Chances of Contracting Leptospirosis?
Vaccines effectively prevent Leptospirosis and protect dogs for at least 12 months. Annual vaccination is recommended for at-risk dogs. Reducing your dog’s exposure to possible sources of the Leptospira bacteria can reduce its chances of infection.
Recommendation from Jacksonville Community Pet Clinic?
This is a disease which can be spread from animals to people. Please have your dog vaccinated! You and your pets are important to us!
Think your pet may have Leptospirosis? Call to make an appointment to bring your pet in for evaluation by one of our veterinarians.
Want to get your pet vaccinated for the disease? Call to make an appointment, this vaccination can be done in conjunction with any routine visit.
The Information in this article is courtesy of the American Veterinary Medical Association
