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<h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2"><strong>What Is Leptospirosis</strong></h3><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">Leptospirosis is a disease that most dog owners have either never heard of or it sounds familiar, but they’re not sure what it is. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can cause liver and kidney failure in dogs and can be contracted by humans. Leptospira is most commonly found in wet environments and is commonly shed in the urine of wildlife. Your dog can be infected with leptospires either directly through infected tissue (i.e., a dead animal) or secretions (most commonly urine) and can also be contracted through indirect contact from contaminated water, soil, or food. Common routes of infection include drinking contaminated water or entering the body through a cut or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or <strong>mouth</strong>). Once leptospires enter the environment, they can live for months in the soil and are easily washed into bodies of water, including puddles.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2"><strong>Diagnosing Leptospirosis</strong></h3><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">Leptospirosis in dogs can be hard to diagnose because the clinical signs are often nonspecific. Common clinical signs include lethargy, fever, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness. Often, elevated kidney and/or liver values will also be seen on <strong>bloodwork</strong>. Your veterinarian may be suspicious of leptospirosis based on clinical signs, vaccination status, and the likelihood of your dog being exposed to it. If your veterinarian is suspicious of leptospirosis, they will probably recommend specialized blood and urine testing.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2"><strong>Treatment For Leptospirosis</strong></h3><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">If your dog is positive for leptospirosis, treatment with <strong>antibiotics</strong> will be started, since it is a bacterial disease. Additional treatment will be needed if there is kidney or liver injury, which may include hospitalization with supportive care. Your veterinarian may also recommend that you contact your physician about possible exposure. The sooner that leptospirosis is diagnosed and treated, the better the chance of recovery.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px"></p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">There are many different serovars (strains) of Leptospira. Vaccines are available that protect against the four most common serovars that cause leptospirosis in dogs. No vaccine is 100% effective, and there is the possibility that your dog could come into contact with a less common serovar. When possible, try to limit your dog’s contact with dead animals, wildlife, and stagnant water.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 27px">When detected early, leptospirosis can have a good outcome with proper treatment and supportive care. Discuss with your veterinarian if your dog is at risk and if <strong>vaccination</strong> is appropriate for your dog. Leptospirosis can be fatal, and there is the possibility that you could get infected by your dog.</p>

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can cause liver and kidney failure in dogs and can be contracted by humans. Leptospira is most commonly found in wet environments and is commonly shed in the urine of wildlife. 

What Is Leptospirosis And How It Can Affect Your Dog?

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Bad breath isn't just annoying - it's often a sign of deeper health issues. Dental disease in pets can lead to oral pain, local or systemic infection, tooth loss, and even heart, liver, or kidney complications. 

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What Is Leptospirosis And How It Can Affect Your Dog?

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What Is Leptospirosis And How It Can Affect Your Dog?

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