Dog Health Problems

Leptospirosis In Dogs

Diagnosis

A microscopic agglutination test is performed on a blood sample of a suspected animal from a laboratory. This can test for individual strains and the animal’s level of antibody (titer) to combat these strains.

Depending on the titer’s level, a positive diagnosis to the precise and specific strain can then be made.

It will be helpful if many samples are drawn and tested as titers may have negative results in the first ten days after the infection, and former immunization shots may give an elevated titer and should be taken into consideration during the interpretation of the titers.

In dogs that are severely infected, they are expected to shed the leptospira organism in their urine, thus when a urine sample is taken and cultured, it can give a positive diagnosis. This is not the best way however, because the individual getting the sample may be at risk.

Treatment

Treatment usually will consist of antibiotics, fluid replacement for rehydration through intravenous as well as controlling the dog’s vomiting through antiemetics and other problems related to liver or kidney infections. Note that dehydration must be correct within six to twelve hours.

Penicillin or one of its byproduct is the antibiotic that is given to treat early infection, after which, doxycycline is used for cure and prevention of possible continuing carrier state.
Prevention through vaccination

Currently, there are many vaccines available for a large variety of species. Chemically inactivated (killed species) vaccines are available for dogs and whole culture vaccine which causes the dog vaccine reactions. Before, leptospiral vaccines only protect against L. canicola and L. icterohaemorrhagiae. Only in the year 2000 that a new vaccine was developed to also protect dogs from L. grippotyphosa and L. pomona.

Prevention through other forms:

1. Solve your rodent problem in the home, keep it well under control.

2. Keep away stagnant water. Make sure to clean and take stagnant water out every corner of your yard, so your dog will not be tempted to drink and to play in it.

3. Mow your lawn regularly.

4. Always provide clean drinking water for your dog.

5. Always be sensitive to your pet’s condition. If he shows any abnormal signs, take him to the veterinarian immediately.