It’s Corgi Corner time! This is a series that’s posted on the first Saturday of every month! These posts will help spread education and awareness on topics like general dog care, corgi specific things, medical care, health facts, etc. This month’s Corgi Corner post will be all about Leptospirosis!

Leptospirosis, also referred to as Lepto, is a disease caused by infection with Leptospira bacteria. The disease can cause severe damage to the kidneys, liver, and other organs, and it may be fatal in some cases. There are many strains of Leptospira bacteria that can cause disease and many mammals are susceptible including dogs, people, livestock, and certain wildlife like skunks, raccoons, opossums, and rats.

The Leptospira bacteria thrives in warm and wet environments, especially during late summer and into fall, and it can survive for weeks to months. It’s more common in warm climates with high annual rainfall, but it can occur anywhere. Many different animals can spread the bacteria through their urine, primarily rodents and small mammals like rats and raccoons, and even some livestock. The bacteria enters the body through ingestion, broken skin, or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth). The incubation period is about one week. The most common way dogs get leptospirosis is through water contaminated with urine, particularly stagnant or slow-moving water like puddles, ponds, or lakes. Another source is from contact with urine-contaminated soil, bedding, or food.

Leptospirosis can be difficult to diagnose because the clinical signs can resemble many other diseases. Veterinarians typically diagnose leptospirosis through a combination of history, clinical signs, and laboratory testing. The choice of recommended tests is usually based on the nature and severity of the illness. Based on bloodwork and urinalysis results, a PCR test which looks for DNA of the Leptospira bacteria and testing for antibodies can be used to confirm a diagnosis.

Leptospirosis is treated with antibiotics for at least two weeks. Hospitalization with IV fluids and management of electrolytes is often necessary initially. Additional treatments may include medications to protect the gut, prevent nausea and pain, provide nutritional support, and manage blood pressure. Dogs with severe disease may need intensive care measures such as oxygen therapy, mechanical breathing support, or dialysis. While a complete recovery is possible, some dogs that survive may be left with chronic kidney or liver disease. Some dogs may not survive if the infection has caused significant organ damage or severely affected the ability of blood to form clots. Dogs with respiratory issues may be less likely to survive even with treatment.

The best way to prevent leptospirosis is through vaccination. This vaccine is now considered a “core” vaccine because of the risk and severity of the disease, and it’s recommended for all dogs. This series can be started at 12 weeks of age. An initial series of two vaccines spaced 3-4 weeks apart is typically recommended, followed by annual boosters. There are also additional measures you can take to help protect your dog from Leptospirosis. Reducing your dog’s exposure to possible sources of Leptospira bacteria can reduce the chance of infection. Avoid letting your dog drink from or swim in rivers, lakes, ponds, marshy areas, or slow-moving or stagnant water. Keep your dog away from farm animals and wild rodents.

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, which means there is the possibility for it to spread from mammals to people. If your dog may have the disease, avoid contact between your bare skin and the dog’s urine, and wear rubber gloves when cleaning any areas the dog has spoiled. Disinfect any areas where the dog has urinated. The bacteria is readily killed by household disinfectants or a dilute bleach solution. If you feel ill, contact your doctor for further advice.