Canine leptospirosis is an infectious disease caused by a bacteria found in both wild and domestic animals. Leptospirosis poses a zoonotic risk to humans, so steps for public health safety need to be taken into consideration when dealing with infected animals and their environment. Wildlife such as raccoons, rats, pigs, skunks, and possums are considered to be primary carriers of this bacteria.

Transmission of the Disease

The spread of leptospirosis begins when spirochetes bacteria are shed in the urine from an infected animal. These spirochetes are able to live for up to six months in the soil and can also survive to contaminate and spread through water sources. Both animals and humans can become infected when they drink contaminated water or when the bacteria passes through damaged skin or mucous membranes.

Symptoms of Leptospirosis appear between four to twelve days after an animal has been exposed and may include:

• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Abdominal pain
• Muscle pain and stiffness
• Frequent urination
• Excessive thirst
• Diarrhea
• Jaundice
• Blood in the urine and/or stool

Treatment:

Antibiotics:

• Penicillin and Streptomycin combination
• Doxycycline
• Enrofloxacin
• Ciprofloxacin

Care should be taken to:

• Combat vomiting and diarrhea symptoms
• Maintain hydration and nutrition

Prevention

Vaccination of your domestic animal
Severely ill dogs should be hospitalized, not only for their own care, but also for public health reasons. Because humans can be infected with leptospirosis in just the same way as canines, it is imperative to take precautionary measures if the family dog has been diagnosed with this disease. Visit our website for more information about dog illnesses.

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