When you schedule a vaccination appointment for your dog, your veterinarian may say their leptospirosis vaccine is due. While you may be familiar with rabies and parvovirus, you may not know much about leptospirosis (i.e., lepto) and what this disease causes in pets and people. Our Westerville Veterinary Clinic team wants to clear up any confusion about lepto and explain the importance of vaccination for you and your pet.

Question: What is leptospirosis in pets?

Answer: Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by various Leptospira spp. These bacteria thrive in warm, wet environments, so areas with frequent rainfall or standing water are hotspots. Additionally, lepto is a zoonotic disease, which means transmission from animals to humans is possible, and the disease poses a dual risk for pet owners.

Q: How does leptospirosis spread to pets?

A: Leptospirosis is primarily spread through contact with contaminated water, soil, or food. Your pet can contract lepto by contacting:

  • Contaminated water — Pets can contract the disease by drinking, swimming in, or walking through water contaminated with infected animals’ urine. Stagnant water in ponds, puddles, or slow-moving streams is the most common leptospirosis reservoir.
  • Infected animals — Direct contact with infected animals or their urine can also transmit lepto. Common lepto carriers include rats, raccoons, and livestock, but almost any mammal can carry the bacteria.
  • Contaminated environment — The bacteria can survive in soil for weeks to months, so pets can easily pick up the disease outdoors.

Q: What are leptospirosis signs in pets?

A: Acute kidney injury is the most common consequence, but acute liver disease can also occur. Common signs in pets include:

  • Lethargy
  • Anorexia
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Jaundice
  • Muscle pain
  • Stiffness
  • Reluctance to move

Bleeding disorders, eye issues, oculonasal discharge, and a wide range of other clinical signs can be associated with a leptospirosis infection. If your pet shows any unusual issues, especially after potential exposure to contaminated water or animals, contact our Westerville Veterinary Clinic veterinarian immediately.

Q: How is leptospirosis diagnosed in pets?

A: A leptospirosis diagnosis involves clinical signs, exposure history, vaccination status, and laboratory tests. Blood tests and urine analysis are commonly used to detect Leptospira bacteria. 

Q: How is leptospirosis treated in pets?

A: Treatment typically involves antibiotics, with doxycycline most commonly prescribed. Supportive measures for kidney and liver disease may include:

  • Fluid therapy
  • Electrolyte supplementation
  • Acid-base level correction
  • Antiemetics
  • Phosphate binders
  • Hepatic support medications
  • Appetite stimulants

Leptospirosis responds to antibiotics, and infected dogs can completely recover. However, chronic kidney or liver disease that requires lifelong treatment may remain.

Q: How can I prevent my pet from getting leptospirosis?

A: Prevention is always better than trying to treat a potentially fatal disease. Protect your pet from leptospirosis by:

  • Vaccinating — Leptospirosis can be prevented most effectively through appropriate vaccination, which typically consists of an initial series followed by annual boosters.
  • Avoiding stagnant water — When hiking, playing, or exploring, keep your four-legged friend away from standing water, especially in areas populated by wildlife or livestock.
  • Controlling rodent exposure — Minimize your pet’s exposure to potential lepto carriers by managing rodent populations around your home and yard.

Q: What happens if I get leptospirosis from my pet?

A: As a zoonotic disease, leptospirosis can be transmitted from pets to people. People can also contract the disease through direct contact with contaminated water or soil, or through cuts and abrasions on the skin. Symptoms can range from mildly flu-like to severe complications like liver failure or meningitis. Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands after handling pets or outdoor activities, can reduce transmission risk.

Leptospirosis may not be as commonly discussed as other pet diseases, but its impact is significant. By understanding the risks and taking proactive measures, you can protect your four-legged friend and yourself from this potentially serious infection. Give our Westerville Veterinary Clinic team a call to set up your pet’s lepto vaccination appointment.