Companion Animals

Dog Leptospirosis Prevention and Welfare

Leptospirosis is a potentially fatal bacterial disease in dogs with increasing incidence in the UK, preventable through vaccination and exposure risk management.

Key Facts

Leptospirosis is transmitted through water, soil, or urine contaminated by infected animals
Rats are the primary wildlife reservoir in the UK
Clinical signs range from mild illness to fatal kidney and liver failure
Serovar L. canicola and L. icterohaemorrhagiae are the most common UK serovars
L4 vaccines providing broader protection are now available alongside the original L2 vaccines

Welfare Considerations

Leptospirosis causes severe systemic illness with rapid deterioration in severe cases. Vaccination provides effective prevention, and risk management through avoiding stagnant water reduces exposure. Early treatment dramatically improves welfare outcomes when disease occurs.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate dogs annually against leptospirosis, especially those with water exposure
Avoid stagnant or slow-moving water in areas with rat activity
Seek prompt veterinary care for any dog with sudden onset illness following water exposure
Learn about leptospirosis risk factors in your area