How leptospirosis can spread to dogs

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I have seen a lot of recent media coverage regarding leptospirosis, which I have had my dog vaccinated against. The news coverage suggests that the problem is transmitted by rats. I thought other species and wildlife were the carriers of this disease, which is why I had my dog vaccinated. We live in the suburbs and there is not much in the way of rats in our neighborhood, or at least we don’t think so.

How much of a problem is this and should we be concerned? It seems that this disease also can affect humans. Can we catch it from our dogs, how do dogs get infected, and what are the symptoms?  How dangerous is it to our pets or us and can it be treated?

There has been a fair amount of media coverage locally regarding leptospirosis based on a homeless person contracting the disease, possibly from city rats. Rats are just one of many species, including dogs, that can be susceptible to and transmit this spirochete bacteria that can cause illness with signs including fever, generalized aches, chills and in severe cases jaundice and more serious signs of illness. The form of transmission to both people, dogs and other species is from urine entering a body through wounds or other contact with infected urine. Homeless populations are often living with poor hygiene and as such can be exposed to the urine, which can be in the soil, sitting water or actual urine.

In cities, rodents are a common source. In dogs, the clinical signs are quite similar with fever and lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea, a lack of appetite and weakness, and dogs may also appear stiff and achy. Increased thirst and urination may also be noted, suggesting compromise of the kidneys and impending renal failure.

Leptospirosis can be transmitted between animals and humans. The worst manifestations lead to liver and kidney failure, which can be fatal if left untreated. The good news is that this bacterium can be successfully treated with antibiotics. Given the fact that your dog is vaccinated, and you live in the suburbs, I suspect risk is very minimal.

Dogs can be exposed to infected soil and water or urine of wildlife anywhere. Due to the presence of wildlife everywhere, the recommendation to vaccinate dogs against leptospirosis is logically sound. There are four common serotypes and most vaccines today protect against all of them. Dogs are usually diagnosed with leptospirosis based on history and clinical signs leading to appropriate diagnostic tests. Because people live closely with their dogs and clean up after them, should a dog be diagnosed positive, it is not uncommon to recommend owners see their physicians, maintain a heightened level of good hygiene and take a preventative dosing of antibiotics.


Dr. John de Jong owns and operates the Boston Mobile Veterinary Clinic. He can be reached at 781-899-9994.

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