Leptospirosis: How to Protect Your Dog

Nov 21 2018, 18:24

Leptospirosis may not be a name that is familiar to everyone but with recent stories in the local and national news, whereby dogs have either fallen ill or succumbed to the potentially dangerous bacteria, it is an important name for all dog owners to know.

Leptospirosis is a severe bacterial infection, which can lead to kidney and liver failure. Wildlife can shed the bacteria in their urine, which contaminates the environment. Transmission to dogs is primarily through exposure to contaminated soil and water.

Symptoms may include:

  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Joint pain
  • Lethargy
  • Anorexia
  • Jaundice
  • Lethargy
  • Dehydration
  • Blood in urine/stool

Preventing access to stagnant water, such as puddles and mud, and discussing proper vaccination protocol with your vet are two important steps you can take to help protect your pet. For more information, give us a call at 250-754-8822

Thank you to Zoetis for providing the two following valuable resources:

Written By: Petroglyph Animal Hospital