So...how do dogs catch Leptospirosis?

by DR. CHRIS BROWN

Dogs

Facebook Twitter

Copy Link

When slurping from puddles is a favourite pastime, you can guarantee a potentially fatal disease that can be found in some, is going to be big news. And when you discover the bacteria is spread by rats, well it’s hard not to panic.

So let’s look at how you can avoid Leptospirosis…

So what is Leptospira?

It’s actually a bacteria. That under a microscope, looks like a tiny worm.

Rodents (like rats) are the host.
Dogs are infected when they come into contact with rats (especially bites) or through urine; either from licking it or (most commonly) from drinking puddles that have washed that urine out of buildings like sheds, homes, garages where rats are living.

Once infected, Leptospirosis targets the kidneys, liver and brain.

Are all puddles problematic?
Sounds like scary stuff. But this disease is most common in urban areas where rats (and mice) are residing. Your regular park puddle is a lower risk as it’s unlikely to have rodent wee flowing into it unless a shed is nearby.

So what are the signs?

Fever and shivering
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Lethargy and loss of appetite
Jaundice (yellow gums or eyes)
Dark or discoloured urine

These symptoms can progress quickly, leading to kidney or liver failure if left untreated.

Ok. Try not to freak out. There are some easy things you can do if you live in a high risk, inner city area with lots of rodents…

How to avoid Leptospirosis
1. Rodent control: Start with your own backyard and home. Ensuring you avoid baits that can be consumed by your own furry family.

2. Avoid stagnant water: Inner city and suburban puddles are the highest risk. Keeping dogs on leads to stop slurping of puddles or urine is useful.

3. Vaccination: Thankfully, a vaccination now exists against Leptospirosis. In high and medium risk areas, it’s definitely recommended. Your vet can advise on your local risk…

It might be taking them away from their favourite slurp of the day, but steering clear of potentially contaminated puddles might just be a stress saving…and life-saving move…

In summary...don't do this 😳

Written and researched by veterinarian, Dr Chris Brown BVSc (Hons)
References:

Monroe, H., & Hartigan-O’Connor, D. (2024). The Leptospirosis Endemic: Environmental, Epidemiological, and Clinical Perspectives. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 11, 11132167. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2024.11132167