Leptospirosis Reportedly on the
Rise Across the Country

A deadly disease is threatening more and more of man's best friends. Leptospirosis - a disease that causes kidney and liver damage in dogs and can lead to death - is reportedly on the rise across the nation.

Although leptospirosis isn't as well known as Lyme disease or rabies, it can be just as dangerous to dogs. Dogs can get the disease from drinking contaminated water, in which other animals, like rats or raccoons, have urinated.

The key to treatment is recognizing the symptoms. Dogs with leptospirosis can experience vomiting, lethargy, anorexia, muscle pain, joint pain and jaundice.

Leptospirosis is highly preventable. Veterinary experts recommend talking to your veterinarian to find out about vaccinating your dog against the disease.

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Protect Your Pet from Rising Threat

Is your dog at risk for leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis Reportedly on the Rise Across the Country

Leptospirosis Risk Factors

A risk assessment can determine which vaccination program a pet needs. Chances of being infected by a disease are based on several factors.

Fort Dodge Animal Health Promotes Lepto Awareness

Dogs are exposed to leptospirosis when they come into contact with contaminated water or moist soil where infected wildlife, such as raccoons, skunks, opossums, squirrels, rats and sometimes other dogs, have urinated. Once infected, dogs don't necessarily exhibit symptoms of leptospirosis, increasing the likelihood the disease will go undiagnosed.

Kenneth Harkin, DVM

Kenneth Harkin, DVM, Associate Professor of Small Animal Medicine Kansas State University, College of Veterinary Medicine Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Pet Owner Testimonial

When Petey, an energetic Welsh corgi, began having accidents around the house, became lethargic and experienced dramatic weight loss, pet owner Jane Babinsky feared something was terribly wrong.