Ensuring Health

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is not a virus like canine distemper and infectious that primarily attacks the kidneys. It is spread in the urine of infected animals, mainly rats, and can affect humans as well as canines. Unvaccinated dogs of all ages are susceptible, although the disease is more likely to strike male rather than female dogs. 

Signs of leptospirosis appear within five to fifteen days after exposure, and include fever, loss of appetite, depression, jaundice, vomiting, dark-coloured urine, and abdominal tenderness from kidney pain. Treatment involves the use of anti-biotics and fluid therapy.