Veterinary experts are issuing a stark warning to dog owners across the United Kingdom to be alert for the signs of a dangerous bacterial infection that can spread from pets to people. The disease, leptospirosis, sees a heightened risk during periods of heavy rainfall and flooding, which are common in the British autumn and winter.
What is Leptospirosis and How Do Dogs Catch It?
Leptospirosis is a potentially fatal illness caused by bacteria called Leptospira. In dogs, the infection travels through the bloodstream before attacking vital organs, primarily the kidneys and liver. According to the veterinary charity PDSA, dogs typically contract the disease through contact with urine from infected animals, such as rats, livestock, or other dogs.
This transmission often happens when a dog drinks from contaminated water sources like puddles, drains, streams, or even licks urine from the ground. The bacteria can survive in damp environments for weeks, making flooded areas a particular hotspot for infection.
Recognising the Symptoms: A Canine and Human Health Emergency
The PDSA states that symptoms in dogs can vary widely and may include vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing, jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and eyes), difficulty breathing, and severe lethargy. Alarmingly, some dogs show few or no signs but can still spread the bacteria.
"Sadly, a dog can die within just two days of showing symptoms, so contact your vet immediately if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above," the charity advises. They classify leptospirosis as a medical emergency requiring urgent veterinary care for the best chance of recovery.
For humans, the risks are equally serious. The UK Government's guidance, updated last year, explains that people usually become infected through direct or indirect contact with infected animal urine, which can enter the body via cuts, grazes, or the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Symptoms in people can resemble severe flu and include high fever, headaches, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhoea. In more severe cases, it can lead to jaundice and cause multi-organ failure, which can be fatal.
Who is Most at Risk and How Can You Stay Protected?
While human cases in the UK are relatively uncommon, certain groups face a higher occupational risk. These include agricultural workers, veterinary staff, military personnel, pest control workers, and those in construction or working on canals. Recreational activities like wild swimming or water sports in contaminated lakes or rivers also pose a threat.
Fortunately, effective treatments and preventative measures are available. Both humans and dogs are typically treated with antibiotics. Crucially, dogs can be vaccinated against the most common strains of leptospirosis, which helps prevent severe illness.
The UK Government outlines several key steps to reduce infection risk:
- Wash hands thoroughly after contact with animals or potentially contaminated water.
- Clean and cover any cuts or grazes with waterproof dressings before potential exposure.
- Shower promptly after possible exposure to contaminated water.
- Wear appropriate protective clothing (like gloves and boots) in high-risk settings.
- Ensure your dog is vaccinated against leptospirosis.
- Avoid contact with rodents and implement control measures where necessary.
- Avoid swimming or water sports in areas where contamination is likely, especially after flooding.
With wet weather prevalent, awareness and proactive protection are the best defences for keeping both your family and your four-legged friends safe from this serious zoonotic disease.
