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Dog A-Z > L > Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection

• The bacteria damages 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.

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