Like people, pets are susceptible to all kinds of diseases. Leptospirosis is one of those diseases. Leptospirosis is a highly contagious disease that can easily be spread from animals to humans. Fortunately, there is a leptospirosis vaccine that can help protect your dog against this disease. At South Granville Animal Hospital in Creedmoor, we offer the leptospirosis shot to pet owners in our local community. Here’s what you should know about this disease.
How Leptospirosis Spreads
Leptospirosis can be carried by common wildlife like squirrels, rats, skunks, opossums, raccoon, and deer. The bacteria can be found in soil, lakes, puddles, or streams where these animals may urinate. If your pet drinks from these contaminated water sources while playing outdoors, he could become ill. Pets that spend a lot of time outdoors, hiking in the woods or playing in parks that are visited by this type of wildlife, are at greater risk of contracting Leptospirosis, but that doesn’t mean indoor pets are risk-free. Small dog breeds and urban pets are some of the most common victims of this disease.
How the Leptospirosis Vaccine Works
Although the leptospirosis vaccine can curtail the spread of this disease, it doesn’t guarantee your dog full protection against contracting Leptospirosis due to the multiple variations of the bacteria that cause the disease. Like many other non-core vaccinations, the Leptospirosis shot can decrease your pet’s risk of getting seriously ill from the disease. The Leptospirosis shot is not mandatory for dogs, meaning it’s up to your discretion whether to give it to your pet. By discussing this option with our veterinarian, you can decide whether to add Leptospirosis shots to your pet’s vaccination schedule for preventative care.
Leptospirosis Symptoms
Leptospirosis symptoms are similar to symptoms of other diseases pets get, making it difficult to diagnose without your vet’s help. These symptoms include:
- Fever
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Severe weakness, lethargy, depression
- Severe muscle pain and muscle stiffness
- Sterility
Younger dogs often have more serious symptoms than senior pets. Anytime your pet shows signs of sickness, it’s important to notify your pet’s veterinarian. We’ll thoroughly examine your pet and run tests to diagnosis his condition, so we can provide the appropriate treatment. Keeping current with your pet’s vaccinations and booster shots is one of the best ways to protect your pet from contagious diseases.
See Our Creedmoor Veterinarian for Pet Vaccinations
To learn more about leptospirosis or to schedule a leptospirosis vaccine for your dog as a preventative measure against this disease, contact South Granville Animal Hospital in Creedmoor at (919) 528-3591. We’re here to meet all your pet care needs.