PetAgree
Beware of Lepto!
Leptospirosis isn’t something that most dogs are routinely vaccinated against here in Michigan. It is something we vaccinate for based on the lifestyle of the dog but I urge everyone to at least be familiar with this disease.
Leptospirosis (Lepto) is a bacterial disease of dogs and many mammals (think skunks, deer, raccoons, rats etc) that affects the liver and kidneys. It can live in rural, suburban and urban areas. The bacteria are spread via urine where it collects in ponds, puddles and other moist environments. Dogs typically become infected with Lepto by drinking, swimming or even walking through contaminated areas. What worries me the most about Lepto, is that it is contagious and can be transmitted from dog to dog and also can be transmitted to humans. Rarely, this is a fatal disease in humans but the CDC estimates up to 200 human cases a year in the U.S. This is where I get on my soap box about the importance of washing your hands if you have pets! If you are like me, I totally incorporate my pets into my life and I get a bit relaxed about washing my hands after playing with my pets but it is VERY important and basic antibacterial soap can prevent you from getting Leptospirosis from you dog. Okay, I’m done lecturing you on the importance of hand washingJ
The symptoms of Lepto are also troublesome. Fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, depression, yellowing of the eyes and skin and lethargy are some of the symptoms dogs may experience. In most severe cases, the disease can lead to liver and kidney failure and may be fatal. Leptospirosis symptoms are similar to many other diseases and because of this the diagnosing of Lepto can be frustrating so if your dog leads an active lifestyle, I suggest, speaking to your veterinarian about adding the Leptospirosis vaccine to your other routine immunizations.
I think of an “active” lifestyle as a dog who participates in any of the following; hunting, swimming or living near an area of water (streams, ponds, lakes and don’t forget trips to the summer cottage). There are two choices when vaccinating against Leptospirosis, a 2-way vaccine or a 4-way vaccine. I suggest the 4 way vaccine because it prevents 4 different strains of leptospirosis. Vaccine reactions don’t happen frequently but they do exist and I always mention them to people who are adding a new vaccine to their pets protocol. Call you veterinarian if you notice facial swelling, vomiting, labored breathing or lethargy. More commonly, you’ll simply notice your dog may be tender at the injection site or just a bit tired the next day.
Beware of Leptospirosis! It may not be a vaccine I’d recommend for every dog but it is worthy of mentioning to dog owner’s who want to be well informed. Again, discuss options with your veterinarian to determine what is best for you and your dog’s lifestyle.
