GALTx eNews: Watch Where Those Snooters Go!
Over the last year, we have heard of several serious cases of Leptospirosis in vaccinated dogs across the nation, so we wanted to take a moment to tell you more about the disease and steps you can take to protect your dogs. Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can affect most mammals, including dogs and humans. One of the most common mechanisms for transmissions is through contact with trash contaminated by infected rodent urine. Dogs can also contract leptospirosis through the skin by swimming in contaminated water or drinking from contaminated pools. While cases are more common in rural, wooded areas with stagnant water sources or heavily irrigated pastures, Leptospirosis lurks everywhere, including urban dog parks where an infected dog might have urinated.
A Leptospirosis vaccine is available for dogs from your veterinarian. It requires an initial vaccination followed by a booster about 3 weeks later and then annual updates. The vaccine only protects against Leptospirosis caused by the four most prevalent strains of lepto bacteria though. Even if your dog is fully vaccinated for Leptospirosis, you will still need to take care to keep your dog away from unsanitary water sources and areas that rodents might visit.
Leptospirosis can require intensive veterinary care and can be fatal to dogs. If you suspect your dog has it, see your veterinarian immediately for treatment with antibiotics. Typically, veterinarians diagnose Leptospirosis with a blood test as the symptoms vary and overlap with other diseases. Generally, watch for sudden fever, sore muscles, reluctance to move, weakness, lack of appetite, shivering and depression. If your dog is diagnosed with Leptospirosis, take precautions to ensure that the disease isn’t transmitted to other dogs or humans in the family by using rubber gloves and household disinfectants to clean up after your pet. Be sure to carefully follow your veterinarian’s recommendations related to antibiotics to clear the infection so that your dog doesn’t become a long term carrier of the disease.
We know dog parents have a lot to worry about. Be sure to talk with your veterinarian about the Leptospirosis vaccination so that your dog has as much protection as possible and be careful about your adventures. Read more about Leptospirosis here.
