Animal Health Solutions

43 Q2 2021 | Animal Health Solutions All breeds are at-risk It is becoming more recognized that all dog breeds and lifestyles are at risk for coming in contact with Leptospira and contracting the disease. For example, many (primarily indoor) suburban and urban small breed dogs are also being diagnosed with Leptospirosis. Some reasons for this include increased human- wildlife interface and the presence of infected urban rodents. Suburban dogs are at-risk Due to sprawling development and habitat destruction, the human-wildlife interface is becoming increasingly more integrated. This puts suburban pets in greater contact with wildlife. Urine from infected wildlife hosts (such as rodents, raccoons, skunks, deer, and coyotes) can be excreted in backyards or in other places near the home where people or pets can be exposed. Urban dogs are at-risk Since rodents often live in cities and are one of the primary host species for Leptospirosis, we can also expect bacterial shedding in urban areas. From this perspective, city dogs can be exposed to Leptospirosis by sniffing infected urine on the sidewalk or drinking from a contaminated puddle on the road or in the yard. This can happen even in the dog that only leaves the house for a bathroom break. Dry climates also pose risks Another changing perception is that of climate on disease prevalence. Wet climates with rainfall and flooding are most often recognized as risk factors, but the disease can, and does, occur in dry climates as well. In Arizona, for example, there has been a noticeable rise in cases since 2017. One could postulate that heavy rainfall in otherwise dry climates exacerbates this risk. Another possibility is during times of drought or low-rainfall, wildlife is drawn into fewer common water sources, which often can be found in places where humans and pets frequent. Subclinical disease More needs to be learned about the prevalence of subclinical infections in dogs, but it has been documented to occur. 1 Due to possible zoonotic risk, treatment is generally recommended for suspected – or, ideally, confirmed – exposures in the same environment as another diagnosed case. 1 Considering these epidemiological trends may help determine risks that exist in your own community and to decide on your best vaccination recommendations. The changing perceptions should also serve as a reminder to keep Leptospirosis on your list of differential diagnoses in all applicable cases. About the author Dr. Brandstetter has always had a passion for helping animals. Through clinical practice she has also developed a passion for client education and communication within the veterinary field. She earned her DVM from the University of California, Davis. She is the owner of a happy Yellow Lab and two spoiled guinea pigs. Reference: 1. JE Sykes, et al. 2010 ACVIM Small Animal Consensus Statement on Leptospirosis: Diagnosis, Epidemiology, Treatment, and Prevention. J Vet Intern Med. 2011 Jan; 25(1): 1–13. doi: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2010.0654.x When it comes to Leptospirosis, almost all dogs are at risk. Since rats, wild animals, and livestock can spread disease, almost all dogs are at risk and should be protected. Here are some interesting reasons why your clients need lepto vaccines: Dogs less than 1 year of age tend to get the most severe forms of Leptospirosis. Chicago, Illinois tops the "rattiest" city list with more that 51,000 rat complaints reported. The remaining top 4 ratty cities include Los Angeles, California, New York City, Washington, DC, and San Francisco, California. One-third of registered dogs in New York City are between 5-20 pounds, with Yorkis and Shih Tzus the most popular breeds. In a survey of over 1,200 healthy dogs in Michigan, 24% of dogs tested were positive for exposure to Leptospira. Another survey in Illinois found 48% of raccoons had been exposed to the disease. The threat of Leptospirosis is closer than you think – city, suburban, and rural dogs are all at risk! References: New York Times 2018; Orkin "Rattiest City"; Veterinary Partner; Hot Spots of Leptospirosis.

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