Connells Point Veterinary Surgery

10/09/2024

12/04/2024

Dr Britton offers a practical, old-school approach within his independent veterinary practice. He has a wealth of knowledge and will provide advice which will be in the best interest of your pet, without the corporate brand.

11/04/2024

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Dr Britton offers a practical, old-school approach within his independent veterinary practice. He has a wealth of knowledge and will provide advice which will be in the best interest of your pet, without the corporate brand.

05/08/2022

11/06/2021

CANINE LEPTOSPIROSIS

What is Canine Leptospirosis?
Though it can occur anywhere, the Leptospira bacteria can be found in soil and water and is very common in areas with warm climate, high annual rainfall and swampy conditions.
Dogs can catch Canine Leptospirosis if they drink water contaminated with urine from infected animals
(including mice, rats and even native marsupials).
According to the AVMA, common risk factors include drinking from rivers, lakes and 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.
All it takes to catch the Leptospira bacteria, is for the dogs mucous membranes (or skin with wound, such as a cut or scrape) to come into contact with infected urine, urine-contaminated soil, water, food or bedding. The dog can also catch the bacteria through a bite from an infected animal or by eating infected tissues or carcasses. Whilst rare, it can be passed through the placenta from the mother dog to her puppies.
Canine Leptospiriosis can be passed on to humans. Avoid contact with your dogs urine.

Canine Leptospiriosis symptoms:
* Lethargy, reluctance to move, muscle tenderness, shivering
* Vomiting
* Diarrhoea
* Loss of appetite, increased thirst, changes of frequency and amount of urination
* Usually associated with a fever
Yellow gums are also common.
The disease can cause kidney failure with or without liver failure.
The signs usually start very suddenly as the disease is dramatic, causing death within a few days.

Canine Leptospirosis Prevention:
Vaccinate your dog if you live in a high-risk area. For example there have been cases reported in some areas around Sydney. Please contact the clinic to see whether you should vaccinate your dog.
Avoid any areas where your dog could come in contact with contaminated water, animals or any surfaces.

25/05/2021