Dog Leptospirosis: Bacterial Disease from Water and Wildlife

Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial disease in dogs transmitted through contact with infected water or wildlife urine, capable of causing fatal kidney and liver failure, and transmissible to humans.

Key Facts

Leptospirosis is caused by Leptospira bacteria with multiple serovars pathogenic to dogs
Dogs are infected through contact with contaminated water, soil, or urine from wildlife including raccoons and rodents
Clinical signs range from mild to life-threatening, including fever, vomiting, jaundice, and kidney failure
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease - infected dogs can transmit it to their owners
The disease is re-emerging in urban areas as wildlife populations adapt to city environments
Vaccination against common serovars (L4 vaccine) provides good protection when kept current
Early treatment with antibiotics is effective but delayed treatment risks permanent organ damage

Welfare Considerations

Dogs with severe leptospirosis suffer from the combined effects of kidney failure, liver failure, and systemic infection. Jaundice, intense nausea, muscle pain, and profound weakness characterize severe cases. The renal failure component causes metabolic toxin accumulation that leads to vomiting, lethargy, and eventually neurological signs. Affected dogs require intensive hospitalization with IV fluids, antibiotics, and supportive care for days to weeks. Despite treatment, some dogs die or develop permanent chronic kidney disease. Dogs that survive severe leptospirosis may require ongoing management for residual organ damage. Prevention through vaccination is straightforward and highly effective, making unvaccinated dog leptospirosis a preventable welfare failure.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate your dog annually against leptospirosis, particularly if they have outdoor water or wildlife exposure
Avoid allowing dogs to drink from stagnant water sources, puddles, or streams
Wear gloves when handling urine from a dog suspected of leptospirosis infection
Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog shows fever, vomiting, and lethargy after water exposure
Advocate for wildlife management approaches that reduce urban wildlife concentrations near pet areas