What is Leptospirosis in Dogs?

Leptospirosis in dogs is a serious bacterial infection that affects dogs, other animals, and even humans. It is caused by spiral-shaped bacteria called leptospires, which thrive in warm, wet environments such as stagnant water and moist soil. The disease is primarily spread through the urine of infected animals, particularly rodents, contaminating water sources and posing a risk to pets that come into contact with it.

A Zoonotic Threat

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. This makes prevention critical, not only for your dog’s health but also for the safety of your household.

Symptoms of Leptospirosis in Dogs

Leptospirosis can affect multiple organ systems, particularly the kidneys and liver, and may lead to life-threatening complications if untreated. Symptoms can vary widely, from mild to severe.

Early Symptoms of Leptospirosis

Fever
Lethargy and weakness
Vomiting and diarrhoea
Loss of appetite
Muscle pain or stiffness
Increased thirst and urination

Advanced Symptoms: Kidney and Liver Damage

Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Severe dehydration
Bloody urine or nosebleeds
Kidney failure
Liver failure
Difficulty breathing

How is Leptospirosis Transmitted to Dogs?

Dogs can contract leptospirosis through direct or indirect exposure to infected urine. The bacteria enter through mucous membranes or open wounds and quickly spread through the bloodstream.

Common Ways Dogs Contract Leptospirosis

Drinking or wading in contaminated stagnant water, such as ponds, puddles, or lakes.
Coming into contact with infected rodents (rats, mice) or their urine.
Exposure to contaminated soil or damp environments.
Interaction with infected wildlife such as possums or livestock.

High-Risk Areas for Leptospirosis Transmission

Urban areas with high rodent populations
Farms, kennels, or shelters where multiple animals are housed
Parks or dog-friendly swimming spots where water may be contaminated
Sydney’s North Shore, Northern Beaches, and other areas with high wildlife activity, natural water sources, and lush greenery

How to Protect Your Dog from Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is highly preventable, and pet owners can take several steps to minimise their dog’s risk of infection.

New Leptospirosis Vaccine

We are thrilled to announce that the Lepto 2 (Leptospirosis) vaccine is now available at The Village Vet! This new vaccine offers superior protection against four serovars (strains) of Leptospirosis, including Australis, the most concerning strain for dogs in Sydney. This is now considered a CORE vaccine for dogs.

Why should your dog get vaccinated with this new vaccine?

Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial infection that can lead to kidney and liver failure, and in some cases, even death. It is caused by the Leptospira bacteria, spread through the urine of infected rodents and wildlife. Dogs can contract it through contaminated water, soil, or direct contact with affected animals. Since it is a zoonotic disease, it can also spread from animals to humans.

What you need to know:

TWO vaccine doses are needed, 4 weeks apart, followed by annual boosters.
If your dog has recently had the Lepto C2i vaccine (which has been the best protection available in Australia until now), they can still receive the Lepto 2 vaccine for optimal protection (and will need a second booster 4 weeks later).
This vaccine is particularly important for dogs living in Sydney, the North Shore, and Northern Beaches, where leptospirosis cases have been reported due to the presence of stagnant water, wildlife, and bustling urban environments.

Practical Tips for Reducing Exposure to Leptospires

Avoid stagnant water – bring your own water bowl when visiting dog parks.
Keep rodents under control – reduce your dog’s exposure but avoid using toxic rat bait.
Supervise outdoor activities – keep dogs on a lead in areas where rats or wildlife are common.
Clean up urine accidents promptly – disinfect any areas where an infected animal may have urinated.

Diagnosing and Treating Leptospirosis in Dogs

If your dog is showing signs of leptospirosis, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

Diagnostic Tests for Leptospirosis

Blood tests to check for kidney and liver function abnormalities.
Urinalysis to detect bacteria in urine samples.
Serology tests to confirm exposure to leptospires.

Treatment Options for Infected Dogs

Antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria.
Fluid therapy to prevent dehydration and support kidney function.
Hospitalisation in severe cases requiring intensive care.

Need Help?

Leptospirosis can be life-threatening, but prevention through vaccination and minimising exposure is key. If your dog is showing signs of illness, contact The Village Vet immediately.

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