Leptospirosis in Dogs - Prevention and Treatment

What is Leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial disease caused by Leptospira bacteria that affects dogs and can be transmitted to humans (zoonotic disease). This potentially fatal infection attacks multiple organ systems, particularly the kidneys and liver, and is found worldwide but is more common in warm, wet climates and areas with standing water.

The disease is increasingly recognized as an important health threat for urban and suburban dogs, not just rural or working dogs as previously thought. Copenhagen's climate and urban water features can create favorable conditions for Leptospira bacteria.

How Dogs Contract Leptospirosis

Transmission Routes

Contaminated Water Sources:

• Standing water, puddles, ponds, and lakes
• Flood water or slow-moving streams
• Dog bowls left outside
• Urban drainage systems

Rodent Urine:

• Rats and mice are primary carriers
• Contamination of soil and vegetation
• Urban environments with rodent populations
• Parks and green spaces

Direct Contact:

• Infected urine from other animals
• Bite wounds from infected animals
• Contaminated food or bedding
• Mother to puppies transmission

Risk Factors

• Access to ponds, streams, or standing water
• Urban and suburban environments with rodent populations
• Outdoor lifestyle and hunting dogs
• Warm, wet weather conditions
• Areas with recent flooding
• Lack of vaccination

Symptoms and Clinical Signs

Early Signs (Days 4-12 Post-Exposure)

Fever and Lethargy:

• Sudden high fever (103-104°F/39.5-40°C)
• Severe weakness and depression
• Loss of appetite
• Reluctance to move

Muscle Pain:

• Stiff gait
• Reluctance to walk
• Muscle trembling
• Back pain and sensitivity

Progressive Symptoms

Kidney Involvement:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Decreased urine production (oliguria)
• Complete lack of urine (anuria)
• Swollen, painful kidneys
• Uremia (toxin buildup in blood)

Liver Damage:

• Jaundice (yellow discoloration of gums, eyes, skin)
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Dark urine

Systemic Illness:

• Difficulty breathing
• Coughing and bloody sputum
• Bleeding disorders
• Rapid heart rate
• Hypothermia in severe cases

Diagnosis

Diagnostic Approach

Blood Tests:

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Chemistry panel (elevated kidney and liver enzymes)
• Leptospira antibody titers (paired samples)
• PCR testing for bacterial DNA

Urinalysis:

• Protein and blood in urine
• Casts and cellular debris
• Leptospira organisms on microscopy
• Urine PCR testing

Imaging:

• Abdominal ultrasound for kidney assessment
• X-rays for pulmonary involvement

Treatment

Emergency and Supportive Care

Hospitalization:

• Intensive care often required
• Intravenous fluid therapy to support kidneys
• Electrolyte management
• Nutritional support
• Monitoring of organ function

Antibiotic Therapy:

• Doxycycline (most common, 2-4 weeks)
• Penicillin or ampicillin for acute phase
• Extended treatment to eliminate carrier state

Supportive Medications:

• Anti-nausea medications
• Gastroprotectants for stomach ulcers
• Pain management
• Blood transfusions if bleeding
• Dialysis for severe kidney failure

Prognosis

• Early treatment significantly improves survival rates
• Severity depends on organ damage extent
• Young dogs may have better outcomes
• Kidney and liver damage may be permanent
• Some dogs develop chronic kidney disease

Prevention

Vaccination

Leptospirosis Vaccine:

• Protects against 4 common serovars
• Given as part of core vaccination protocol
• Initial series: 2 doses 3-4 weeks apart
• Annual boosters required
• Especially important for at-risk dogs
• Some veterinarians recommend 6-month boosters

Vaccine Considerations:

• Previously associated with vaccine reactions (improved formulations now available)
• Benefits outweigh risks for most dogs
• Discuss with your Copenhagen veterinarian
• Essential for dogs with water access
• Recommended for urban dogs due to rodent exposure

Environmental Management

Water Safety:

• Avoid standing water and puddles
• Provide clean, fresh water only
• Empty outdoor water bowls regularly
• Fence off ponds and streams

Rodent Control:

• Eliminate rodent harborage areas
• Secure garbage and food sources
• Regular property inspections
• Professional pest control if needed

Zoonotic Risk - Human Health

Human Infection

Leptospirosis can infect humans through:

• Contact with infected dog urine
• Contaminated water sources
• Soil contaminated with animal urine
• Occupational exposure (veterinarians, farmers)

Protection Measures

• Wear gloves when cleaning up after infected dogs
• Wash hands thoroughly after handling pets
• Avoid water contact in endemic areas
• Seek medical attention if exposed
• Inform physicians of pet illness

Copenhagen-Specific Considerations

Local Risk Factors

• Urban rat population in certain districts
• Parks and green spaces with standing water
• Copenhagen's canal system and harbors
• Wet climate conditions
• Dogs swimming in local water bodies

Veterinary Resources

• Excellent veterinary diagnostic capabilities
• 24/7 emergency hospitals in Copenhagen
• Advanced treatment options including dialysis
• Experienced with leptospirosis management

Conclusion

Leptospirosis is a serious but preventable disease. Vaccination is the single most important preventive measure, especially for dogs in Copenhagen with access to outdoor environments, water sources, or areas with rodent activity.

If your dog shows any signs of leptospirosis—especially fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or jaundice—seek immediate veterinary care. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for the best outcomes.

Protect your dog from leptospirosis—contact MyPeterinarian in Copenhagen today to ensure your dog's vaccinations are current. Our experienced veterinary team provides comprehensive vaccination protocols, health assessments, and expert guidance to keep your dog safe from this dangerous disease. Don't wait—schedule your appointment now!