As pet parents, we all want to ensure our furry family members are happy and healthy. Sometimes, however, they can be affected by serious illnesses that require urgent attention. One such disease we want to bring to your attention, especially given some recently confirmed cases on the Central Coast.

What is Leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can affect both dogs and, less commonly, cats, as well as humans. It's caused by corkscrew-shaped bacteria called Leptospira that thrive in wet environments and are often spread through contact with contaminated water, soil, or the urine of infected wildlife (like rodents, possums, and bandicoots). Here on the Central Coast, with our beautiful waterways and bushland, the risk can be higher.

Important Note on Vaccination: Many, many dogs are currently not vaccinated for Leptospirosis. This is largely because, until recently, veterinarians did not routinely recommend vaccination for this disease across all areas. Now, with increasing awareness and confirmed cases in our region, we are playing catch-up to ensure more dogs are protected.

Symptoms Pet Parents Need to Watch For – Prompt Action is Key!

The tricky thing about Leptospirosis is that its symptoms can be vague and mimic other illnesses, making early detection by pet parents crucial. If you notice any of the following signs in your dog or cat, especially if they’ve been in contact with water or wildlife, it’s vital to seek immediate veterinary attention:

• Loss of appetite: They refuse to eat their favourite food or treats.
• Vomiting and/or diarrhoea: These can range from mild to severe.
• Increased thirst and urination (initially): This can be followed by a decrease in urination as kidney function declines.
• Fever: Your pet feels warm to the touch, or you notice shivering.
• Muscle pain or stiffness: They might be reluctant to move, cry out when touched, or walk with a stiff gait.
• Jaundice (yellowing of gums, skin, or whites of the eyes): This indicates liver involvement and is a serious sign.
• Changes in gum colour: Pale or dark red gums can be a concern.
• Coughing or difficulty breathing: In some severe cases, lung involvement can occur.

Why an Urgent Vet Visit is So Important

When your pet presents with these symptoms, time is of the essence. At our hospital, we are equipped to quickly assess your pet's condition. We can perform a thorough physical examination and discuss their recent activities and potential exposures. We can then initiate diagnostic tests, including specific blood and urine tests for Leptospirosis, to determine if their symptoms are related to this serious infection or something else. The great news is that the results of the Leptospirosis test are returned by your vet during your visit, as it is completed immediately in-clinic. This allows for rapid diagnosis and the initiation of vital treatment without delay.

Early diagnosis and prompt initiation of treatment can make all the difference to your pet's outcome. We have seen firsthand how much better pets do when they receive veterinary care in the early stages of the disease. While Leptospirosis can be severe and even fatal, early treatment with appropriate antibiotics and supportive care (such as intravenous fluids to protect the kidneys) dramatically increases the chance of survival and a full recovery.

Recent Confirmed Cases on the Central Coast – An Unusual Serovar

We want to particularly highlight that we have had confirmed cases of Leptospirosis recently on the Central Coast, involving an unusual serovar (a type of Leptospira bacteria). This underscores the importance of vigilance and prompt action, as the prevalence and types of Leptospira in our local environment can change.

Call to Action: Prompt Treatment is Key!

Please, do not hesitate. If you are unsure about any symptoms your pet is displaying, or if you would like to make time to see one of our friendly vets to discuss Leptospirosis prevention (including vaccination options for dogs), then call us on 4365 1086 during our opening hours:

• Monday to Friday: 9am to 6pm
• Saturday morning: 8am to 12pm

Your pet's health is our priority, and we are here to help.