Leptospirosis Health Alert
Leptospirosis Health Alert
Due to the heavy rains and flooding this spring, we at the Willard Veterinary Clinic are concerned about the re-emergence of infectious diseases for our pets and ourselves that are worsened by soggy conditions. Flood waters are full of bacteria and will contribute to the increase of ticks and mosquitoes. We expect to see an increase of gastrointestinal diseases from Giardia and other pathogens, in addition to another dangerous pathogen – Leptospirosis – a sometimes lethal bacterial infection in dogs that many people might not know about.
Leptospira is a dangerous bacterial spirochete that is usually carried in the urine of rodents or other wildlife. There are more than 200 serovar (versions) of the bacteria, and approximately 12 serovar can infect dogs. Cats seem to be resistant to these bacteria, but humans are susceptible. Most infected dogs will have undetected and asymptomatic infections, but some may become fatally ill, which is why we want to call attention to Leptospira.
Symptoms of the disease include: increased thirst and urination (in the end stages, there is no urination), blood in the urine, fever, sore muscles, stiffness, shivering, weakness, decreased appetite, depression, vomiting, rapid dehydration, diarrhea (with or without blood), jaundice, difficulty breathing, decreased platelets with bleeding disorders, uveitis (inflammation of the eyes), and rarely, meningitis. However, many pets will show no apparent illness.
Fortunately, we can help protect your pet against Leptospira. There is a vaccine that protects against four of the most common serovar for dogs for six to 12 months following vaccination. Unfortunately, there is no cross-protection from one serovar to another, so there is no protection against the other eight serovar. Just like with the flu vaccine, the vaccine companies try to protect against the most commonly seen versions of the bacteria.
We frequently see mild allergic reactions to the vaccine caused by the large amount of protein it contains, such as facial swelling. Rarely, we see severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, a life-threatening type of allergic reaction. We recommend giving your pet Benadryl, an antihistamine, a few hours before vaccination to prevent allergic reaction. We also recommend that patients remain in the clinic for 15 to 30 minutes after vaccination to monitor reaction to the vaccine.
Leptospira needs to stay wet to survive. It prefers wet, warm conditions, which is why it often follows heavy rains, like we recently experienced. Almost any soap and water or sunlight will dry out and kill the bacteria.
What Can We Do?
1. Avoid contact with urine or contaminated water.
2. Vaccinate at-risk dogs (most dogs).
3. Give your pet Benadryl prior to vaccination.
4. Split up vaccination from annual vaccinations to prevent reactions.
5. Monitor dogs for early symptoms of kidney disease or other diseases.
6. Wear gloves and wash hands when handling body fluids.
Early diagnosis and treatment ensure better chances for a cure!
Contact Willard Veterinary Clinic at 617.773.6565 if you think your pet may be infected or if you have any further questions.