Lepto Outbreak In Dogs In Tonawanda/Kenmore Area: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

There has been an outbreak of Leptospirosis in dogs in the Kenmore + Tonawanda area that can cause liver failure, kidney problems and Lyme disease. The bacteria is spread from your pet coming in contact with the bacteria that is from wildlife usually in contaminated water or urine. 

Sometimes it is not always clear when a dog is infected fever, shivering, muscle tenderness, reluctance to move, increased thirst, changes in the frequency or amount of urination, dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes), or painful inflammation within the eyes.

There ARE vaccines that can prevent lepto, but if your dog contracts the bacteria, it can be cured with aggressive treating with antibiotics and care.

According to AVMA, if your dog contracts lepto, here's what you should do:

• Administer antibiotics as prescribed by your veterinarian;
• Avoid contact with your dog’s urine;
• If your dog urinates in your home, quickly clean the area with a household disinfectant and wear gloves to avoid skin contact with the urine;
• Encourage your dog to urinate away from standing water or areas where people or other animals will have access;
• Wash your hands after handling your pet.