A dog was brought to Bay Road Animal Hospital recently that was suffering from severe kidney disease. This dog was only 8.5 years old and had no previous history of kidney problems. Severe kidney disease usually strikes later in life. There was no history of vaccines being administered for several years. We suspected Leptospirosis (Lepto).
Lepto is transmitted in the urine of raccoons, possums, squirrels, rats, mice, dogs, and other animals. The organisms are ingested by drinking contaminated puddle water. Dogs that lick their paws after inadvertently stepping in urine from the infected animals can also get the disease.
A blood sample was collected from the 8.5 year old dog, and then was submitted to Idexx Laboratory for testing. We began treating the suspected Lepto with injectible antibiotics. We treated the kidney disease with IV fluids. This patient rallied in the first 12 hours but died within 24 hours. Three days later we received test results confirming our suspicion of Lepto.
Tests for this disease take time and may not confirm the diagnosis for as long as 6 weeks. We must treat these dogs on the suspicion of Lepto because we do not have the time to wait for test results. We have had some success treating but we also have seen some deaths. It’s reported that this disease is on the rise in some dogs.
Lepto vaccine can protect pets against the four most common forms of Lepto. This vaccine must be given yearly. It is a must for any dogs in Florida that could be exposed to the wild animal host population.
Don’t let your dog be the next victim of this preventable disease. Check your vaccine records or call your veterinarian to be sure your dog is protected. If you discover your dog has not had the Lepto vaccine, call your vet today!
About Dr. David J Smith
Dr. Smith has been practicing veterinary medicine for over 35 years and has owned Bay Road Animal Hospital since 1980. He has over 3 decades of veterinary experience, treating small animals such as dogs, cats, birds, and exotic pets.
Dr. Smith was born and raised in Philadelphia. After graduating high school, he decided to attend nearby Ursinus College in Collegeville, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in 1969. He attended the prestigious University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine after completing his undergraduate work, graduating in the class of 1973.
Dr. Smith started his veterinary career in Annandale, VA where he practiced medicine for Springfield Animal Hospital. He decided to move to Sarasota one year later after taking a vacation to all of the wonderful beaches and waterways. He immediately began working for Bay Road Animal Hospital, which was owned by Dr. William Greene at that time. In 1976, he became partners with Dr. Greene and then eventually bought the practice in 1980 when Dr. Greene retired. Dr. Smith opened Crossings Animal Hospital in 1990 to serve east Sarasota. He still owns both locations, where he resides as the chief veterinarian. Dr. Smith has a special interest in internal medicine, dermatology, and avian and exotic pets.
Dr. Smith was president of the Southwest Florida VMA and was awarded a gold star award from the FVMA for his professional abilities and leadership. He is also known for his generosity. He performs free spay and neuter operations for organizations such as the Humane Society of Sarasota County. He also provides vet services at a discounted price for many non-profits throughout the area. Dr. Smith is the most recognizable veterinarian in Sarasota. You might know him from BLAB TV, where he had a show, All About Pets, for over 10 years. He has also appeared countless times on local news stations like SNN and Channel 7. You can watch him now on our Facebook page, where he does daily tips and offers important vet advice on a routine basis.
Dr. Smith likes boating, golf, tennis, and trail riding. He is also a huge fan of the Florida Gators and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
