Leptospirosis

We found it particularly appropriate to discuss this disease because of the recent weather we have been experiencing over the past few months. The hurricane in particular, adds a different dimension to an increasing risk of Leptospirosis exposure. Interestingly enough, Leptospirosis is the most wide spread disease in the world, affecting all continents. When we came across another positive patient, we knew it was time to inform our public.

So what is Leptospirosis? Well...now that you've asked, it is...

A bacterial infection (Leptospira) contracted from contaminated water sources, i.e.: stagnant ponds, canals, lakes, streams. Primary carriers of the bacteria are raccoons, squirrels, opossums, deer, and foxes. The bacteria are picked up through mucous membranes from the urine of infected animals. Dogs can walk in water, drink it, and lick it off their feet. This disease is Zoonotic and is transmissable to humans. The disease primarily affects the kidneys but can also affect the liver. Symptoms include anorexia, lethargy, vomiting, jaundice, fever, increased drinking and urinating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Due to our record setting rain amounts, plenty of areas are inundated with exposure possibilities. This exposure could be puddles, in pots, streams, and ponds. It does not take much for our dogs to become exposed. Exposure is currently high and we want to make sure that our community is knowledgeable.

We were lucky enough to catch this positive patient early, before any major damage could be done. It just so happens that the disease was caught by accident. We found some irregular parameters in our normal, yearly preventative blood profile. Upon further investigation, we discovered the disease. Because of the nature of the Leptospirosis, the patient could have shown little or no symptoms until further along in the disease progression, resulting in severe damage to the kidneys, liver, and the possible transmission to the owners.

Our vaccines are very safe and contain the strains of Leptospirosis we see in New Jersey. Like most vaccines, if starting out, we could give one vaccine and then repeat in 3 to 4 weeks. After the initial 2 vaccines, it becomes a yearly vaccine. Please be sure to speak to your veterinarian on the increased risk and any concerns you may have surrounding the disease.

Pet of the Month-DUNKIN

Dunkin is our Pet of the Month! Dunkin is 5 years old and was found abandoned in his carrier at a Dunkin Donuts parking lot, hence the name Dunkin. He was brought to Princeton Animal Hospital and we were able to get him to a great recovery. He loves to sit outside on 'his' chair and take in the sunshine. He is very food motivated for a cat and is a great addition to the family that adopted him.

 

This playful pooch can't figure out why this person won't throw the stick