Dog owners whose four-legged friend particularly likes to drink from puddles or swim in lakes have been warned of a deadly disease that can spread through water.
Leptospirosis is a serious illness caused by bacteria which affects humans as well as animals, though according to the NHS it is ‘very rare’ for people to catch the disease. It is mainly spread through contaminated urine and can enter the body through the mouth, nose or wounds.
Wet ground, stagnant water or bodies of fresh water such as lakes and rivers can become contaminated with the bacteria by the urine of affected rats, farm animals, or other dogs, The Mirror reports . Leptospirosis can live for several months in water, and dogs who regularly kill rodents, spend a lot of time swimming, or live on a farm are at highest risk of catching the disease.
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Leptospirosis causes serious symptoms that can often prove fatal for dogs. According to the RSPCA it can cause fever, lethargy, increased thirst, vomiting, bloody diarrhoea and jaundice, while in more severe cases infected dogs can also develop kidney or liver failure.
Owners are urged to contact their dog’s vet if they notice any of these symptoms, particularly if their pet is not up to date with their vaccinations. In mild cases vets may be able to use antibiotics, a fluid drip and other medicines to help fight off the disease.
Dogs can be protected against the most common types of leptospirosis bacteria with a vaccine. Owners are advised to speak to their vet about which vaccine will help best protect their dog.
A dog’s first leptospirosis vaccination should be administered as part of its initial puppy vaccinations that are given at eight and 12 weeks, followed by regular boosters throughout its life. The PDSA has reminded new puppy owners to avoid farms and fresh water, as well as walks in public places with their pooch, until after they have had their first vaccination course.
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