Contact us:

ph. 401-294-9518

fax 401-295-1535

25 Shermantown Road

Saunderstown, RI 02874

 

After hours emergencies: Contact Ocean State Veterinary Specialists (OSVS) 401-886-6787 or Emergency Veterinary Services (EVS) 401-732-1811

 Leptospirosis

 

 What is Leptospirosis?

 Leptospirosis is a contagious disease that affects both people and animals. Leptospirosis  is caused by a bacteria called Leptospira. This bacteria can be found in most domestic  and wild animals like cattle, pigs, sheep, deer, raccoons, skunks, and rodents. The  bacteria (Leptospira) is passed from infected animals through their urine. The Leptospira  infected urine is passed into water sources like streams and puddles where the bacteria  grows and reproduces.

 Can My Dog Get Leptospirosis?

 Your dog could become infected with Leptospirosis by swimming in or drinking  contaminated water. Dogs may become infected even walking through contaminated  water because the bacteria can enter the bloodstream through an open wound or  through any mucus membrane like the eyes, nose or mouth.

 Leptospirosis is very contagious and can be spread from dog to dog or dog to people.  Cats however appear to have a natural resistance to the disease.

 What Are The Symptoms Of Leptospirosis?

 Symptoms of the disease tend to be flu-like in nature and may include fever, lethargy,  loss of appetite, vomitting, diarrhea, bloody urine, and jaundice (yellowing of the whites  of the eyes or the gums).

 Leptospirosis can lead to kidney and liver failure. If left untreated it may be fatal.

 How Can I Help Protect My Dog From Leptospirosis?

 Vaccinate your dog. The Leptospirosis vaccine we recommend protects against the 4  most common strains of Leptospirosis.

 Avoid water sources that may be contamintaed. If contact is unavoidable, wash  thoroughly any areas that have been exposed.

 Always wash your hands if you may have come in contact with your dog's urine.