What dog owners need to know about the disease leptospirosis

By Jerry Klein, American Kennel Club

<p>Leptospirosis is a disease caused by bacteria found in the urine of infected animals, like livestock, wild animals and rodents. Dogs can catch the bacteria from puddles and stagnant water where infected animals have urinated.</p>

Recent reports from large cities, such as New York City and Chicago, indicate dogs are getting sick or dying from a disease normally associated with rats: leptospirosis.

Infection rates have been increasing in the United States and gaining attention for the number of cases seen in dogs in urban areas rather than what was more often seen in rural or wild areas. This shift may be due in part to surging rodent populations, especially since the pandemic has affected routine sanitation procedures.

What is leptospirosis?

First discovered in the 1880s, leptospirosis is caused by bacteria found in the urine of infected animals, such as cattle, pigs, horses, dogs, wild animals and often rodents.

It is zoonotic — meaning both humans and animals are susceptible to it.

The Leptospira bacteria tends to thrive in warm, wet environments, like moist soil, water or food. It is more prevalent in areas that have stagnant surface water frequented by animals, but even areas in a backyard may harbor the bacteria if there have been infected animals present.

Dogs usually contract leptospirosis through direct contact with infected water; drinking, swimming or even walking through mud or soil nearby can expose them to the bacteria, which can enter the body through the mouth, nose or eyes or an open wound. Leptospira bacteria can also be passed from a pregnant mother to her puppies through the placenta.

Symptoms

Initial symptoms of leptospirosis include lethargy, vomiting and fever — signs that could indicate many other diseases. It can be difficult to detect and treat early, though leptospirosis can be determined by diagnostic tests and exposure history.

Some dogs infected with Leptospira bacteria don’t get sick, but those that do usually develop symptoms a week or two after exposure. Illness can vary, from mild transience and recovery to organ failure and death.

The extent in which bacteria affect the organs depends on a dog’s immune system and its ability to eradicate it fully. Young dogs with weak immune systems are most at danger, though it can affect all dogs.

Other symptoms of leptospirosis may include:

  • Sudden fever and illness
  • Sore muscles or a stiff gait
  • A reluctance to move
  • Shivering
  • Weakness
  • Runny nose
  • Spontaneous cough
  • Depression
  • Lack of appetite
  • Increased thirst and urination (this may be kidney failure, leading to an inability to urinate)
  • Rapid dehydration
  • Vomiting, possibly with blood
  • Diarrhea, with or without blood
  • Bloody vaginal discharge
  • Dark, red-speckled gums
  • Yellow skin or whites of eyes
  • Difficulty breathing, fast breathing or an irregular pulse
  • Swelling of the mucous membrane and/or lymph nodes

Treatment and prevention

In addition to a physical examination, your veterinarian could recommend blood work, urinalysis, X-rays or an ultrasound to treat leptospirosis.

The disease can be treated with antibiotics and supportive care if organ damage is not severe. However, if left untreated, it can cause irreversible liver and kidney damage and possibly death.

Reducing your dog’s exposure to possible sources of the Leptospira bacteria can reduce its chances of infection.

If your dog has been diagnosed with leptospirosis, protect yourself with these tips:

  • Administer antibiotics as prescribed by your vet.
  • Avoid contact with your dog’s urine or bodily fluids.
  • Use a household disinfectant and protective latex gloves to clean up urine.
  • Encourage your dog to urinate away from standing water or areas where people or other animals may go.
  • Wash your hands after handling your pet.
  • Consult your physician about leptospirosis in people, especially if you are pregnant or immunocompromised.

Dr. Jerry Klein is the chief veterinary officer of the AKC.

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