Leptospirosis (Lepto) is a serious bacterial disease that infects dogs, humans and other animals. Exposure occurs in the environment from contaminated water, food, soil, or vegetation. Lepto enters through the tissue of the mouth or injured skin. It is transmitted through an infected animal’s urine and can be transmitted to humans. Lepto can be shed in the urine for years. Once an animal is infected with Lepto he/she becomes a chronic carrier. Wild animals, especially rats, are carriers of the disease.
Symptoms of Lepto appear about 1-2 weeks after exposure which include: fever, depression, vomiting, reluctance to move, loss of appetite, dehydration, and weight loss. Lepto affects and reproduces in the kidneys causing kidney failure and if left untreated can lead to death. Lepto may also affect the liver and nervous systems.
Lepto vaccine is sometimes combined and administered with the distemper vaccine. Consult your veterinarian for the vaccination program that is best suited for your dog.