What is Leptospirosis?
“Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by spirochetes in the genus Leptospira, including L interrogans and L kirschneri.” – AAHA
“The signs of leptospirosis in dogs vary, depending on the strain of the infecting bacteria, the dog’s immune response, and other factors. Some infected dogs have no signs of illness; some have a mild and transient illness and recover on their own; and others develop severe, life-threatening illness… The disease can progress to kidney and/or liver failure. Some dogs may develop severe lung disease and rapid, difficulty breathing. Damage to the heart muscle has been suspected in some cases…. Leptospirosis also can cause bleeding disorders, which can lead to blood-tinged vomit, urine, feces (stool), or saliva; nosebleeds; and pinpoint red spots on the gums or other mucous membranes, or on light-colored skin. Fluid can build up in the body, causing swollen legs or excess fluid in the chest or abdomen…When leptospirosis is treated early, the chance of recovery is good. However, there is still a risk of permanent residual kidney or liver damage. For dogs whose kidneys are struggling to pass urine despite supportive treatment, a referral for dialysis may provide support until the kidneys recover function and can be lifesaving. Dogs with severe respiratory disease are less likely to recover, even with treatment.” – AVMA
“The signs of leptospirosis in dogs vary, depending on the strain of the infecting bacteria, the dog’s immune response, and other factors. Some infected dogs have no signs of illness; some have a mild and transient illness and recover on their own; and others develop severe, life-threatening illness… The disease can progress to kidney and/or liver failure. Some dogs may develop severe lung disease and rapid, difficulty breathing. Damage to the heart muscle has been suspected in some cases…. Leptospirosis also can cause bleeding disorders, which can lead to blood-tinged vomit, urine, feces (stool), or saliva; nosebleeds; and pinpoint red spots on the gums or other mucous membranes, or on light-colored skin. Fluid can build up in the body, causing swollen legs or excess fluid in the chest or abdomen…When leptospirosis is treated early, the chance of recovery is good. However, there is still a risk of permanent residual kidney or liver damage. For dogs whose kidneys are struggling to pass urine despite supportive treatment, a referral for dialysis may provide support until the kidneys recover function and can be lifesaving. Dogs with severe respiratory disease are less likely to recover, even with treatment.” – AVMA
How is it Spread?
“Leptospirosis is most often spread through the urine of an infected animal, especially (but not only) wild rodents. Infected dogs can seem healthy but still pass Leptospira bacteria in their urine. The bacteria can survive for weeks to months in urine-soaked soil. Dogs typically become infected when their mucous membranes (as in the mouth, nose, or eyes) or skin wounds (like cuts or scrapes) are exposed to urine or urine-contaminated water or soil.” – AAHA
Can People Catch Leptospirosis?
“Yes. Leptospirosis is one of the most widespread zoonotic diseases in the world, meaning it can be spread from animals to people. Infection in people can cause flu-like symptoms, inflammation of the eyes (uveitis) and/or heart muscle (myocarditis), neurologic problems, and liver and/or kidney disease. In the United States, most human cases of leptospirosis have been traced back to recreational activities involving water or exposure to infected rodents. Transmission of leptospirosis from an infected dog (or cat) is much less common, but it is possible.” – AVMA
Why is it now a core vaccine?
“All dogs in North America should be considered at risk of leptospirosis. Historically, the disease was most common in large breed dogs with rural outdoor exposure. This is no longer true. Small-breed dogs are frequently infected, perhaps because of urban and suburban exposure of dogs to wildlife reservoirs including rodents. Dogs of any age, breed, or sex can be infected. Leptospirosis occurs throughout North America, and while often associated with exposure to water, infection is well documented in arid regions such as Arizona. Risk factors for leptospirosis include dogs spending any time outdoors (including urban, suburban, and rural environments), exposure to rodents, and time in kennels or dog daycares.” – AAHA
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