Leptospirosis in dogs: symptoms, treatment and prevention

Leptospirosis is a potentially fatal infection spread by rat urine and can be found in contaminated water.

Photo of a dog drinking from a puddle, a common source of leptospirosis in dogs, on an article stressing the importance of leptospirosis prevention, dog vaccinations, and early detection.

Overview

Leptospirosis is a potentially fatal bacterial infection, mostly spread through the infected urine of rats and other rodents, but can also be found in contaminated water, like puddles, canals, farmlands and stables. It is more common during the wetter months of the year. The bacteria get into your dog's body through cuts, scratches or the thin linings of the nose, mouth and eyes and can cause liver and kidney damage or failure. In this article, we will discuss leptospirosis symptoms, prevention and treatment, as well as answer the most important questions surrounding this nasty infection.

Symptoms of leptospirosis in dogs

Leptospirosis diagnosis

Leptospirosis treatment

Leptospirosis prevention

Medically reviewed by Lizzie Youens BSc(Hons) BVSc MRCVS

Published on 09/02/2023 • Reviewed on 20/11/2024