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If you’re a pet owner, you want to protect your four-legged friend. While issues like bordetella and parvo are more well known, leptospirosis is a fairly common disease that can affect canines of all ages. Here's what veterinarians want dog owners to know about the disease. 

A Guide to Leptospirosis in Dogs

What Is It?

Caused by leptospira bacteria, this disease is often contracted through drinking from and playing in natural water sources, such as creeks, lakes, and rivers. Dogs are also at risk when exposed to infected wildlife. If left untreated, leptospirosis can lead to kidney and liver damage and may be fatal. 

While the disease can spread to cats, it's a rare occurrence, and the reaction isn't usually as severe. Humans can also be impacted, but most human cases result from water-exposure and not infected canine contact. 

What Are the Symptoms?

Canine leptospirosis can manifest in a variety of ways and levels of severity. Some of the most common symptoms include fever, fatigue, vomiting, jaundice, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and dehydration. Since many of these signs are also present with other diseases, veterinarians typically also run blood, urine, and stool analysis before giving a diagnosis. 

How Can You Prevent & Treat It?

veterinarianSince the biggest threat comes from water-based recreational activities, carefully selecting the location of outdoor recreation is recommended. Additionally, pet vaccinations are available and provide 12 months of protection. If you spend time hiking, camping, or exploring nature with your pet, ask your veterinarian to include the preventative treatment in their yearly vaccination appointment. 

When leptospirosis does occur, antibiotics are the primary treatment. IV fluids are also common to combat dehydration. If liver or kidney damage has already occurred, your veterinarian may suggest additional treatment. 



Protect your dog from leptospirosis and other dangerous diseases with the help of Wachal Pet Health Center in Lincoln, NE. Since 1996, these veterinarians have proudly provided a variety of services to four-legged friends across Lancaster County. From pet vaccinations and treatments to grooming and boarding, they're committed to quality, compassionate care. Browse their extensive list of services online, and schedule your pet's appointment today at (402) 477-7877.

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