-----Canine Leptospirosis
River Road Veterinary Clinic
Box 309
Norwich, Vermont 05055
Phone: 802-649-3877 Fax: 802-649-1345
email: RRVC@Valley.net.com
www.rrvetclinic.com
Dr. Christine Pinello - Dr. JoAnne Giel - Dr. Kathy Ling Newcomb
Canine Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that is carried by common wildlife and rodents. The most common carriers are rats, raccoons, skunks, opossums, cattle and pigs, but dogs can also be carriers. Leptospirosis is transmitted primarily from animal host reservoirs through the urine. The bacteria can also survive in animal tissues and free in the environment in moist, alkaline soil or in surface waters, drains, and mud. Dogs with leptospirosis can demonstrate fever, vomiting, lack of appetite, jaundice and in severe cases, fatal kidney and/or liver failure.
The recognition and incidence of canine leptospirosis in the U.S. has increased significantly during the past decade. Fortunately, a new vaccine has been introduced that offers dogs protection against four of the more common strains of leptospirosis. We are now using and recommending this vaccine at our clinic to protect your dog from this re-emerging disease. The vaccine is given in a two-dose series. Your dog will receive an initial dose in combination with the distemper vaccine followed by a booster given two to four weeks after the first. After this initial series, the vaccine will be given as part of your dog's annual vaccinations.
Thank you for taking the time to read this important
information. Please make sure to schedule an appointment for your dog's
leptospirosis booster today.