Leptospirosis: An Emerging Problem for Pet Owners

Leptospirosis (“lepto”) has been diagnosed in pets for several decades, but recently, it’s begun to show up across the United States in higher numbers. Although the illness is most often associated with warm, rainy regions, outbreaks have occurred in cities such as Phoenix, New York City, and Denver.

In part, the increased diagnoses can be blamed on climate change and unpredictable weather patterns, more urban-adapted wildlife, and our ability to more accurately diagnose the illness. Because of the severity of lepto among dogs, as well as its risk to people, it’s integral to understand how this disease is contracted and what you can do to protect your pet and others.

What is Leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is caused by the Leptospira bacteria, which is a spiral organism known as spirochetes. Lepto is a zoonotic disease that can affect many species, including raccoons, skunks, rodents, coyotes, dogs, and humans (although rare, cats can also be infected). Once inside an animal or person, Leptospira exist in the kidneys and are then shed into the urine.

One of the primary ways in which pets become infected is through contact with urine-contaminated water or soil. An infection can also result from a bite wound or consumption of an infected animal or their waste. Because these bacteria cannot thrive in very cold temperatures, most cases of lepto occur during the summer and fall and after rainy periods.

Leptospirosis typically produces the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Depression/lack of interest in exercise
• Tiredness
• Vomiting/diarrhea
• Dehydration/increased water consumption
• Jaundice

Because this disease can damage the kidneys and liver or cause these organs to fail, it’s extremely important to seek veterinary care if your pet is displaying these symptoms. In addition to the impact on your pet, all members of the family, including other pets, are at risk of contracting lepto. Great care is needed to avoid exposure to urine or other contaminants, and it’s important that your pet be quarantined while you seek veterinary care.

Treatment and Prevention

Early diagnosis and treatment is the best option when it comes to lepto. Antibiotics are used to kill the Leptospira while supportive care can be implemented should there be any secondary issues affecting the organs or causing nausea and dehydration. When caught early enough, many pets recover without any lasting effects. However, for pets who reach the more serious stages of the illness, ongoing kidney or liver issues can result.

While leptospirosis can certainly be scary to consider, there are some effective ways you can help minimize your pet’s risk:

• Consider vaccinating your pet against the illness, especially if he or she spends a lot of time outdoors.
• To prevent drinking from puddles or other possibly contaminated water sources, be sure to bring plenty of water for your pet when traveling, on walks, or on other outdoor adventures.
• Do not allow your dog to drink from communal water bowls at dog parks or other public places.

For more information on leptospirosis and its prevention, please call the Beverly Hills team.