Northeast Dogs at Risk—Vaccinate Now

A potentially fatal pet disease is making its rounds in the Northeast United States.  Veterinarians are strongly urging dog owners to have their pets vaccinated against Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that generally causes kidney failure, liver problems and/or bleeding.

The affliction was thought to have disappeared for many years, thus prompting most practitioners to discontinue preventative measures.  But recently it has been making a comeback in Connecticut and New York.  On Long Island, it has been estimated that almost 1,000 dogs died from Leptospirosis in the last four years.

The bacteria are spread through the urine of wild animals (deer, raccoons, rodents, etc.) and into the soil and standing water where domestic pets are prone to swim or drink.  The recent, wet weather may be to blame for exacerbating the situation.

If contracted, Leptospirosis can still be treated with antibiotics, provided that it has been detected early enough.  Symptoms include loss of appetite, lethargy, stiffness, muscle pain, fever, diarrhea and vomiting.  The treatment lasts up to two weeks in the hospital, with the dog being administered antibiotics and intravenous fluids.

Cats and humans have also been infected, though in the case of humans it has rarely resulted in fatality.  The CDC has indicated that the disease cannot be transmitted through saliva or a dog bite.

An in-depth study is being conducted by Dr. Diane Levitan of Mobile Veterinary Ultrasound and Endoscopy in Woodbury, NY.  Dr. Levitan's detailed findings can be read on-line. 

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