PETS Leptospirosis
by Dr. Hiroko Hata
www.vcahospitals.com/san-martin
L
eptospirosis is a bacterial disease of worldwide significance. It can affect most mammals, including rats and
other rodents, dogs, cattle, wildlife, and is even transmissible to humans (also called a zoonotic disease). Transmission of this dis- ease from dogs to humans is rare; most peo- ple are infected from exposure to contami- nated water. The bacteria, called leptospira, thrive in water and moist environments and are shed in the urine of infected animals. For some reason, leptospirosis does not cause clinical disease in cats. Dogs can be infected when they ingest rodent-contami- nated garbage/debris or through contami- nated water. In some dogs, leptospirosis does not
cause signs of illness. In these cases, it is possible that the dog acts as a carrier of the disease and can shed bacteria each time it urinates. There are multiple serovars (species) of the bacteria, and some serovars are more likely to be associated with signs of illness. Once infected, a dog may start to show signs of disease anywhere from four to twelve days later. Because the bacteria often infect the liver and kidneys and caus-
Treatment of leptospirosis is possible,
and includes supportive treatment of liver and/or kidney failure, along with antibiotic treatment. The prognosis depends upon the severity of the disease, and the response to treatment. Some dogs that survive an acute infection may end up with organ damage and chronic liver/kidney disease. Leptospirosis in dogs can be prevented
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es failure of these organs, the signs of ill- ness can vary. Some signs of illness that are common include the following: lack of energy and/or appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, yellow color of the skin/eyes/gums (jaun- dice), excessive drinking and urination and fever. The diagnosis of leptospirosis can be
difficult. Typically, both blood and urine tests are performed and other causes of liver and kidney failure are excluded.
with yearly vaccination. The vaccines cur- rently recommended contain multiple serovars (strains) of leptospira. The deci- sion to vaccinate is usually made during a discussion with your veterinarian and is based upon your pet’s lifestyle and risk of exposure. The topic of vaccine reactions should also be discussed with your veteri- narian.
Dr. Hata practices at VCA San Martin
Animal Hospital. Originally from southern California, she moved to Morgan Hill after com- pleting an extensive one-year internship in Tucson, Arizona. She has special interest in internal medicine and emergency medicine. In her free time, she can be seen hiking with her dog Bunny.
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oarding & Grooming onvenient Drop-off Services abbits, Pocket Pets, Reptiles & Birds. iagnostic & Medical Care ighly Skilled & Caring Professionals
& Birds. sionals
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40 May 2012 • Out & About
VCAsanmartin.com
n.com
www.outandaboutmagazine.com
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