Leptospirosis- Is your pet protected? Here’s What You Need to Know!

Leptospirosis-Is your pet at risk for this bacterial infection? Leptospirosis can be acquired by dogs once exposed to the Leptospira bacteria. The bacteria are most commonly spread through the urine of infected wildlife and lives in infected soil, water, and food. Wildlife that most commonly spread this disease are rodents, raccoons, opossums, cattle, swine, horses, sheep, and goats.  Once contracted, dogs can also spread it to other animals, even other dogs! Leptospira penetrates the skin and spread through the bloodstream, causing potentially great harm to the liver, kidneys, reproductive system, eyes, and central nervous system.

Did you know? Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning that it can be transmitted to humans by animals. 

Signs and Symptoms

The most common signs and symptoms of Leptospirosis are: fever, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and lethargy. If your pet is experiencing any of these signs or symptoms- it is important that you make an appointment with your veterinarian.

South Town Animal Hospital carries the Leptospirosis vaccination at our clinic to provide for dog’s who may be at risk for the disease, depending on their lifestyle. Want to know more about your pet’s risk for Leptospirosis? We would love to provide you with a risk assessment.

Please give us a call at (847) 695-7387 to make an appointment!