Do You Know What You are Vaccinating Your Dog Against? - Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is the “L” of a DHLPP vaccine.  According to the American Animal Hospital Association, the leptospirosis vaccine is considered “non-core.”  This means that they do not think it is necessary for every dog to be vaccinated against it, but based on the geographic area where you live, and/or your dog’s lifestyle, and/or your veterinarians personal beliefs, your dog may or may not be receiving this vaccine whether you request it or not.

Leptospirosis is caused by one of the many subtypes of the Leptospira bacteria. This bacterial organism most commonly originates from wild animal urine.  Examples of animals include mice, rats, opossum, raccoons, skunks, and voles.  Now this does not mean your dog has to come in direct contact with wild animals to contract this disease.  If your dog goes in any of the same areas where wild animals inhabit, your dog can get leptospirosis.  Your dog can come in contact with contaminated water, soil, or food.

Leptospira bacteria can enter the dog’s body through open wounds or through mucous membranes (i.e. mouth, eyes, nose).  Once in the body, the bacteria travel to the kidney, liver, spleen, nervous system, and/or genitals.  This can result in liver failure or kidney failure, which can be fatal if left untreated. 

A dog infected with leptospirosis can act very sick, or may not show any signs at all.  Some symptoms include lethargy, anorexia, vomiting, pain while moving, excessive urinating, drinking large amounts of water, yellowing of the skin, or sudden death.

Your veterinarian can perform blood tests to see if your dog is infected with leptospirosis, but will often start treatment anyway while waiting for the results if leptospirosis is suspected.  Treatment usually involves oral and/or intravenous antibiotics to rid the body of the Leptospira. IV fluids will often be administered also to help combat kidney failure and dehydration. 

About 70-85% of patients diagnosed with leptospirosis survive, however, permanent liver and kidney damage is common.  Another important fact to remember about leptospirosis is that it is zoonotic, meaning it can be passed on from animal to human. 

Prevention of leptospirosis is easily achieved with vaccination.  There is much concern though about a disproportionate number of dogs having allergic reactions to leptospirosis vaccines more than other vaccines.  I hope I have presented enough information here to enable you to make an informed decision about whether or not to vaccinate you dog against this disease.  Other means of prevention include not letting your dog drink stagnant water and avoiding areas frequented by wildlife, especially after a heavy rain.  

If you have any questions, feel free to write them in the comments or contact me at www.zutillavet.com/contact-us