Leptospirosis is a dangerous infection that dogs can catch—and it can also make humans sick. It’s caused by bacteria that love warm, wet places, which makes it common in Nigeria. If your dog gets infected, it could damage their kidneys and liver. In serious cases, it could even lead to death. That’s why it’s very important to know what leptospirosis is, how it spreads, and how to protect your dog from it.
Signs That Your Dog Might Have Leptospirosis
Not all dogs show the same signs. Some only feel a little sick, while others get really ill. At first, your dog may have a fever, act tired, stop eating, or have sore muscles, vomiting, or diarrhea. If the illness gets worse, your dog’s eyes and gums might turn yellow, they may pee too much or not at all, have blood in their urine or poop, swollen legs, or even breathing problems. If it’s not treated in time, the infection can lead to kidney and liver failure.
How Dogs Catch Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis spreads through the pee of infected animals like rats, other dogs, or farm animals. If that pee gets into water, food, or soil, it can infect your dog. Dogs can get sick from drinking or swimming in dirty water, walking on wet, contaminated ground, eating garbage, or even chasing rats. Once inside the dog, the bacteria spread to the bloodstream and can damage organs.
Leptospirosis Can Affect People Too
Because leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, it can jump from dogs to people. If you touch your dog’s urine or step into dirty water, you could get sick too. In people, it can feel like the flu, but it can also cause liver and kidney problems, or even meningitis.
How to Stop Leptospirosis Before It Starts
The good news is leptospirosis can be prevented. Here’s how:
- Vaccinate Your Dog – This is the best way to protect them. Puppies should get their first shot at 8 or 9 weeks old, and a booster every year. It’s not a one-time thing—keep up with the yearly boosters.
- Keep Rats Away – Rats carry leptospirosis. Don’t leave food out overnight, and store your pet’s food in sealed containers. Keep your house and yard clean.
- Avoid Dirty Water – Don’t let your dog drink from puddles or swim in dirty water. Always give them clean water to drink, especially if your area floods easily.
- Practice Good Hygiene – Wash your hands after touching your dog, especially after outdoor play. Clean their sleeping area often and disinfect any spots where they pee inside the house.
- Visit the Vet Regularly – Regular check-ups help catch infections early. If your dog shows any signs of leptospirosis, take them to the vet right away.
What Happens If a Dog Gets Leptospirosis?
If your dog is diagnosed with leptospirosis, fast treatment is very important. The vet might give antibiotics like doxycycline to kill the bacteria. If the kidneys are affected, your dog may need fluids through a drip. In serious cases, your dog may have to stay in the hospital. Even after treatment, your dog might still carry the bacteria in its urine for a while, so prevention is important.
Note:
Leptospirosis is scary, but it can be stopped. The warm, rainy weather in Nigeria helps it spread, so taking steps like vaccinating your dog, keeping your space clean, and watching out for signs of illness can protect your furry friend and your family too.
If your dog has any symptoms or if you just want to protect them with a vaccine, reach out to us at Doctor Hulk Veterinary Hospital, or click here.