AP Photo/Julie Jacobson
People get many things from their dogs, friendship, companionship, exercise, love. Sometimes they also get sick.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial illness that dogs may catch through exposure to contaminated water, rodents and rodent feces. Lepto is a bacterial family with over 200 varieties that can infect mammals from rats to cattle.
In dogs, it is a very serious illness, potentially fatal. A vaccine exists but it only protects against two variants. It is treatable if caught in time. It's symptoms include "anorexia, vomiting, lethargy, depression, muscle pain and sometimes diarrhea or bloody urine". It can cause kideny and liver damage, and death.
New varieties have appeared in the last several years for which there is no vaccine. As with the appearance of any new disease, it can spread rapidly in a region.
Humans that work with animals are the most likely to be exposed. Veterinarians, dairy farm workers and sewer workers top that list. With the new varieties, there is increased concern about the potential for pet owners to catch Lepto.
Pet owners should use proper sanitary practices around sick animals. Dog urine is especially infectious. Gloves and boots are appropriate protection.
Sick dogs should not be walked in areas where children might come into contact with the dog's urine, parks, playgrounds, etc. Care should be taken to protect waterways, streams and creeks, from becoming contaminated.
Lepto will make a human very ill. In humans, the symptoms are nearly the same as in a dog. Most patients will require hospitalization. Treatment includes antibiotics and a patient may also need kidney dialysis.
Rapid veterinary care for a sick pet may save its life. Careful handling of animals wastes and proper disposal will help prevent the pet owner from becoming ill, as well.
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