08/12/2026
PSA: A local patient came into our practice sick this week and tested positive for Leptospirosis. This bacteria is shed in the urine of wildlife and can cause serious illness in pets. It can also be spread to humans. Dogs are at risk from exposure to, or drinking from, slow-moving or stagnant water sources. Leptospirosis is also more common after heavy rainfalls and flooding. Exposure to wild animals (especially rodents) or farm animals, even if in the backyard, and contact with other infected dogs (such as in urban areas, dog parks, or boarding or training facilities) also serves a potential risk.
Some infected dogs show no signs of illness; some have a mild illness and recover on their own; and others develop severe, life-threatening illness. Signs in dogs include: loss of appetite, vomiting, lethargy, abdominal pain, diarrhea, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes), dehydration, drinking or urinating more than usual, weight loss, stiffness or muscle pain. This disease can lead to acute kidney and/or liver failure, among other serious issues, which can be life threatening. Luckily for dogs, there is a vaccine that can help prevent the severity and shedding of the virus, which also keeps dog owners and family members safer as well.
The best way to prevent Leptospirosis infection is by getting your dog vaccinated and making sure they receive their annual booster shot. Also, avoid letting your dog drink from or swim in rivers, lakes, ponds, marshy areas, or slow-moving or stagnant water. Dog owners should also keep their dogs away from farm animals and wild rodents, including carcasses as well.
We categorize the Lepto vaccine as a core vaccine here in the state of NJ, and experiencing a positive case here firsthand this week proves why. Has your dog received the Lepto vaccine? Is your dog's annual Lepto booster up to date? If you are unsure or would like to get your dog started on the Lepto series, give our office a call! 973-736-7810
