Leptospirosis – An Important Update for Families with Dogs

Leptospirosis – An Important Update for Families with Dogs

by Dr Amy Howe, Veterinarian

Does your dog go to the Northern Beaches or South Coast? Then they need protection from Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial disease that can affect humans and animals. The disease is caused by the Leptospira bacteria, which is excreted in the urine of infected animals including mice, rats, cattle, pigs and dogs. This can lead to contaminated water and soil, which can enter the body via cuts or abrasions, as well as via the mouth, eyes and nose.

Whilst initially starting with vague signs such as lethargy, vomiting or diarrhoea, infected dogs can become extremely ill, with approximately 50% of canine cases having a fatal outcome due to severe kidney failure.

Towards the end of 2024, an upgraded vaccination against the two most common strains (serovars) causing leptospirosis in Australia was released by MSD, offering protection against a second strain of the disease. MSD’s Nobivac Lepto2 vaccine provides protection against serovar Copenhageni, as well as serovar Australis, which has become known as the ‘South Coast strain’.

Whilst still a relatively uncommon disease in Australia, cases tend to occur in warm, humid environments such as north-eastern NSW and QLD. However, there are some emerging hot spots in Greater Sydney and NSW, which are a little closer to home here in Ku-Ring-Gai.

Turramurra Veterinary Hospital recommends vaccination against leptospirosis for dogs that live in or visit the following areas:

• Northern Beaches
• North Sydney (south of Chatswood)
• Inner Sydney and Inner West
• Sydney Eastern Suburbs
• South Coast
• Newcastle area
• Any area where dog is in contact with cattle/pigs (rural/farm properties)

The new upgraded vaccination is now available at Turramurra Veterinary Hospital and will require two primary booster vaccinations given 2-4 weeks apart (even if your pet has received the previous vaccination). The vaccination is then continued annually to maintain protection.

If you have any questions about Leptospirosis, the risks in your pet or whether they should receive the vaccination, you can visit our leptospirosis page or contact our friendly Customer Care Team to organise an appointment with one of our vets.