Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that infects and damages the liver and kidneys. It leads to organ failure and usually death.
Rodents and wild animals carry this disease in their urine, which passes into soil or water, where it can survive for weeks.
CAUSES:
Your dog can get leptospirosis through direct contact with the bacteria. Either symptoms will show within a week, or the dog will only become a carrier and not show any symptoms.
Animals can spread leptospirosis to humans, causing flu-like symptoms, and sometimes life-threatening illnesses. If you think you may have been exposed, contact your physician.
SYMPTOMS:
If you notice any of the above symptoms, go to your veterinarian immediately, because leptospirosis can lead to kidney failure and death.
DIAGNOSIS:
To diagnose your dog, your veterinarian may perform the following:
TREATMENT:
Most veterinarians will take the following course of action for your dog:
Make sure to give your dog the full course of medication and to follow up with your veterinarian.
PREVENTION:
Dogs:
Humans:
PROGNOSIS:
Around a quarter of infected dogs will not survive the initial infection. Dogs that do survive will develop chronic renal failure and remain carriers of the disease with the potential to spread it.
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The communication methods below are monitored during our facility's regular business hours.
Long Island City Phone: 718-752-1488
FAX: 718-752-1499
Email: astoriaanimalsociety@gmail.com
Astoria Animal Society is a non-profit veterinary practice.