As I walked this morning in the spring garden in my yard, the spring tulips, ferns, and hostas are greeting the warming sunshine in their radiant splendor. All seems perfect as the squirrels scamper about with their daily chores. Or is it a perfect setting for a more sinister undertone? It seems that those same conditions that allow the plants to grow also allow shedding of bacterial infections into the environment. One such infection is Leptospirosis.

What is Leptospirosis?  

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection of people and dogs that is shed in the urine of other mammals (cattle, pigs, horses, rodents, and wild animals). It thrives in the warm, moist conditions of community parks, muddy areas, creeks, and small bodies of water (ponds). It is more common in the Southeastern United States and Hawaii, although it occurs throughout the world.  Most small mammals that carry the infection (skunks, raccoons, rats, etc.) do not appear ill.

How do dogs become infected?

Dogs are infected through minor abrasions of the skin when exposed to infected urine or urine contaminated standing water/soil. Thus playing in communal areas shared with other animals, bite wounds, eating urine contaminated food, and swimming in contaminated ponds or small creeks can lead to infection.

What are the signs of Leptospirosis? Can a pet get infected again?

Depression, fever, lack of appetite, stiff joints, vomiting, red eyes,  an increase in thirst, jaundice, and even bleeding disorders are reported signs in infected dogs. It is more common in summer months when there is rain runoff (floodwaters) and stagnant water pools. It may lead to kidney & liver failure, inflammation of the brain/spinal cord, respiratory signs, and even death. The signs develop 2 days to 4 weeks after exposure (average of 5 to 14 days). Dogs can get infected again.

Can people be infected?

Yes! The latest information from CDC (Center for Disease Control) suggests that 1/3rd of the human infections originate from contact with dogs and 1/3rd come from exposure to rats (and their urine). The signs are similar to that of dogs.  During World War II, servicemen were infected by swimming in contaminated ponds. More commonly it is seen in farmers, mine workers, sewer workers, slaughterhouse employees, veterinary staff, fish workers, dairy farmer, and kayakers (water outdoor sports enthusiasts).

How is it diagnosed?

The most common way is with blood titers run initially and then 2 to 4 weeks later watching for a 4x’s increase in the level. Urine can be screened for the organism but it is not always found.

Is there a treatment?

Yes. Penicillin antibiotics stop the infection in the bloodstream and then a follow-up antibiotic, Doxycycline is used to help clear remaining organisms from the kidneys. However, a patient that is in kidney failure with this infection may require dialysis and there is potential for irreversible damage.

Can a person or another dog be exposed simply by being around the urine of their dog in say a “household accident”?

Yes. Thus, wearing gloves in handling any sick animal is recommended especially when cleaning up urine. Always wash your hands after handling your pet, especially if your pet is not feeling well. To clean surfaces take one part of bleach to 10 parts of water.

Is there a dog vaccine for Leptospirosis or other means of prevention?

Yes!!!!! There is a vaccination for at least 4 types of Leptospirosis, but not for all varieties. It will reduce the severity of the disease, but may not prevent the shedding of the organism in urine with natural Leptospirosis exposure for many months to other dogs and their owners.  The vaccination is administered after 12 weeks of age as 2 injections at 3 to 4 weeks apart, then once a year.

In addition, keeping rodent populations (rats, mice, voles, and moles) under control is key around homes.

What are the dog risk factors to help an owner decide if they want the Leptospirosis vaccine?

Spending a lot of time outdoors, exposure to wild mammals, visiting public parks, and having access to creeks & small ponds are the more common factors.

Can cats carry Leptospirosis and become infected?

Yes, cat can become ill with leptospirosis. However, it is felt they are more likely carriers of the illness as reported infections are low. In addition, feral cat colonies may harbor the disease in southern climates and thus it is a potential risk to human handlers in southern climates.

Betsy Sigmon DVM, Diplomate American Board of Veterinary Practitioners

Hospital Director, Creature Comforts Animal Hospital