Leptospirosis

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                      General Information



Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial disease that infects dogs,

people and several other types of animals.  There are numerous

types (called serotypes) of leptospires.  Though each type is

infectious only for certain animals, some infect several

species, including people.  These bacteria attack the kidneys,

liver and nervous system.  Recovered animals may shed the

organism in their urine for up to 1 year.  Infected rats are a

common source of leptospirosis.  Vaccination is the best

prevention for leptospirosis.  All dogs should be vaccinated

yearly.  This vaccine is commonly combined with the distemper,

hepatitis, parvovirus and parainfluenza vaccines.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Laboratory tests of blood and urine are necessary to diagnose

    and monitor the response to treatment of leptospirosis.

    Hospitalization is often necessary.



2.  Give all medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot give the medication.



3.  Diet:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Feed the normal diet.



    ____A special diet is required.  Feed as follows:





4.  Activity:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Allow normal activity.



    ____Restrict activity as follows:





5.  Isolation:  Because leptospirosis is a contagious disease,

    your pet should not be allowed contact with other dogs until

    the urine is non-contagious.  The doctor will advise you as

    to the length of time necessary and the frequency of follow-

    up urinalyses.



6.  Avoid contact with your pet's urine.  Any urine-soiled area

    should be cleaned with detergent and rinsed with an

    iodine-based disinfectant.  Please discuss any unusual

    cleaning problems with the doctor.



       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet vomits.



    * Your pet has difficulty urinating or has blood in the

    urine.



    * There is a change in your pet's water consumption.



    * Your pet has diarrhea or develops new signs.



    ____A urine specimen is requested.