03/07/2023
There has been talk of more dogs becoming infected with Leptospirosis locally. Here is a fact sheet to stay informed and try to keep your dog as protected as possible:
• What is it: a bacterial infection with multiple strains: Leptospira Canicola, L. Grippotyphosa, L. Icterohaemorrhagiae, L. Pomona are common strains
• What carries Lepto: rodents-mice, rats, raccoons, opossums, etc
• How does the dog become infected: ingestion-usually stagnant water or swimming. Wetter weather can spread it more easily and allow it to collect in puddles.
• What signs would my dog show: can be from mild to severe-fever, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, drinking more/urinating more, stiffness/soreness. There mucous membranes can change to a yellow tinge (jaundice) in some circumstances
• Can it be treated: Yes, it can be treated with antibiotics, but can be life threatening in many dogs since they may not show signs until extreme damage to their organs occur, leading to organ failure.
• Can it spread to other dogs/people in house: Yes! Unfortunately, it can spread to other people in the house esp the people cleaning up the dog’s accidents that they often have due to damage occurring in kidneys. Other dogs in house can get it from the urine as well or from the original source of contamination.
• How can I keep my dog safe: best course of action is protection, which comes from the Leptospirosis vaccine. It is can be included in the Distemper/Parvo vaccine, but some give it separately or not at all for some dogs that have a severe allergic reaction.
-Some dogs seem to be more sensitive to this vaccine and/or may have an allergic reaction to the vaccine. Giving a medication like Benadryl or steroid prior to the vaccine may be elected to continue the vaccine, or it may be decided to not give it again if it is a severe allergy. Pain and lethargy are not severe reactions.
-This vaccine is needed yearly to stay protected
-Also best to not allow them to drink stagnant water/puddles.