Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection.
- The bacteria damage the liver, kidneys and blood vessels causing jaundice, haemorrhage, vomiting and black diarrhoea and severe dehydration.
- The liver becomes enlarged causing acute abdominal pain, and in some cases, damage to the kidneys may lead to kidney failure.
- The bacteria are easily killed by most disinfectants.
- The bacteria are passed by direct dog to dog contact; the main source of infection is the urine of infected animals.
- The bacteria can also enter the blood stream through cuts or grazes on the dog's feet. Leptospirosis is also carried by foxes and rats.
- The severity of this disease can vary. Death can occur within two days.
- Leptospirosis can also cause serious or fatal disease in man.