Important clinic announcement:
In light of all the recent Leptospirosis cases in HK, please be reminded that all dogs that go out for walks (no matter how infrequent) and especially dogs that go out for hiking, should have annual boosters for Leptospirosis. Please book yours today! Dogs that have been vaccinated this year from C5 (routine vaccination) will not need this injection as it is included in the booster.
How Do Dogs Get Leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis mainly occurs in subtropical, tropical, and wet environments. Dogs typically contract leptospirosis through direct contact with urine from an infected animal (wildlife, infected rodents). Open sores on the skin can increase the chances of contracting this disease. If your dog swims in, passes through, or drinks infected water, or if they come into contact with infected soil or mud, they are at risk.
Can Leptospirosis Spread to People and Other Pets?
The Leptospira spirochete bacteria can be transmitted to humans and other animals from an infected animal. Children are most at risk of acquiring the bacteria from an infected pet.
Symptoms of Leptospirosis in Dogs
Lack of appetite, vomiting, possibly with blood, diarrhoea, with or without blood, sudden fever and illness, unwilling to move, stiff limbs, shivering, fever, depression, weakness, increased thirst and urination—may be indicative of chronic renal (kidney) failure, progressing to an inability to urinate, bloody vaginal discharge, dark red-speckled gums (petechiae), yellow skin and/or whites of eyes, spontaneous cough and or difficulty breathing.
How Does Leptospirosis Attack a Dog’s Body?
Leptospirosis spreads throughout a dog’s entire body, reproducing in the liver, kidneys, central nervous system, eyes, and reproductive system. Soon after initial infection, your dog will develop a fever and a bacterial infection of the blood, but these symptoms soon resolve as antibodies are produced. However, Leptospira can remain in the kidneys, reproducing there and infecting the urine. Infection of the liver or kidneys can be fatal for animals if the infection progresses, causing severe damage to these organs.
