Canine Leptospirosis

Canine Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that is shed in the urine of common wildlife and some domestic animals. In rural areas, pigs and cattle are primary reservoirs of the disease. Important reservoirs of wildlife include rodents, deer, raccoons, possums, and skunks. The bacteria maintains in water sources such as lakes and streams during the summer and early fall. Dogs contract the bacteria most commonly through mucous membranes or by ingestion.

This has typically been a disease of very wet climates, however, since 2004 the front range of Colorado and foothills has been diagnosing the disease. It is particularly a concern as the disease is zoonotic (contagious to humans).

Dogs can show a variety of signs if suffering from the disease. One or more of the following seem to be the most common:
• Fever
• Muscle and joint pain
• Kidney failure
• Liver disease
• Drinking large amounts of water

There are many species of the bacteria that can affect dogs. A newer vaccine now protects from four of the species that are most prevalent. If your dog is coming in contact with water sources that could be visited by wildlife or lives in a rural area consult your veterinarian on vaccination.

- Dr. Natalie Durbin, DVM West Ridge Animal Hospital