If you’ve been told your pet may need a leptospirosis vaccine, you might be wondering: What is it? Is it really necessary? It’s completely normal to have questions—especially when it comes to protecting your furry family member from something you may not have heard much about.
At Midland Animal Hospital, we’re here to help you understand your pet’s health needs and feel confident in your choices. Let’s take a closer look at what leptospirosis is and whether the vaccine makes sense for your pet.
What Is Leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can affect both animals and humans. It’s spread through the urine of infected wildlife (like rats, raccoons, deer, or opossums) and is commonly found in puddles, ponds, soil, or standing water—especially after heavy rain or flooding.
Your dog might be at higher risk if they:
- Spend time outdoors, especially near water or wooded areas
- Drink from puddles or lakes while walking or hiking
- Have contact with other animals or wildlife
- Live in or travel to areas with a warm, wet climate (like Georgia)
Cats are much less commonly affected, but dogs—especially active, adventurous ones—can benefit from vaccination.
Why Vaccinate?
The leptospirosis vaccine helps protect your dog from this potentially serious disease, which can cause:
- Fever, vomiting, and weakness
- Liver and kidney damage
- In severe cases, life-threatening complications
Leptospirosis is also zoonotic, which means it can spread from pets to people. Vaccinating your dog helps protect the whole family.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Call us right away if your dog shows any of the following symptoms:
- Sudden lethargy or fever
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Increased thirst or urination
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin
Even if you’re not sure it’s leptospirosis, it’s always better to play it safe and let us take a look
At Midland Animal Hospital, we’re committed to treating your pets like family. If you’re ever unsure, we’re just a phone call away—ready to listen, guide you, and provide the care your pet needs to feel better.
👉Contact us now at midlandah@gmail.com or 706 323-8316
In summary, leptospirosis is a serious bacterial infection that spreads through water and wildlife. The vaccine is recommended for most dogs—especially those who spend time outdoors. Not sure if your pet needs it? We’re happy to talk it through!