As our community moves into recovery from the recent Kona low storm, the Hawaiian Humane Society and the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health (DOH) want pet guardians to be aware of an important health consideration: leptospirosis. Pets that were exposed to floodwaters or mud during the storm may be at risk, and knowing what to watch for can make a real difference in your pet’s life.
What is leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by Leptospira, which is carried in the urine of infected animals including rats, mice, mongooses, livestock and dogs. The bacteria spread through contaminated water and soil. Hawaiʻi sees higher rates of leptospirosis than most of the country due to its warm, wet climate, and flooding events like the recent Kona low increase exposure risk by spreading contaminated soil and water into areas where people and pets live and move. The bacteria enter the body through broken skin or through the soft tissues of the mouth, nose or eyes, and can also be contracted through direct contact with the urine, blood or tissues of an infected animal.
Which pets are at risk?
Dogs are considered especially vulnerable because of the time they spend on the ground and their tendency to drink from standing water, but any companion animal that was exposed to floodwaters or mud during the storm should be monitored. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure, with a possible range of 2 to 20 days, so continue watching your pet even if they seem healthy right now.
Symptoms to watch for
Contact your veterinarian if your pet shows any of the following:
- Fever
- Decreased appetite or lethargy
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Increased thirst and urination
- Muscle soreness or reluctance to move
- Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes
Yellowing of the skin or eyes can indicate liver or kidney failure, and warrants immediate veterinary attention. Leptospirosis is treatable with antibiotics, and early intervention can save your pet’s life.
What to do if your pet shows symptoms
- Contact your veterinarian right away
- Tell your vet that your pet was exposed to floodwaters or mud and ask them to evaluate for leptospirosis
- Antibiotic treatment is available and is most effective when started early
Protecting your dog with vaccination
The leptospirosis vaccine is available for dogs and is an important part of protecting both your pet and your household.
Dogs receiving the vaccine for the first time require two doses given two to four weeks apart, followed by annual boosters to maintain protection. The vaccine is available as a standalone series or as part of a combination vaccine (DHLPP) that also covers other core diseases. Contact your veterinarian to find out whether your dog is current and to discuss the right option for your pet.
A note for pet guardians who were also exposed
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from infected animals to people. If you were exposed to floodwaters or mud during the storm and develop symptoms including fever, headache, muscle pain or vomiting, contact your healthcare provider and get tested for leptospirosis.
Download our fact sheet
Download our leptospirosis pet safety fact sheet below.
More information
For more information about leptospirosis, visit:
This page was developed in partnership with the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health.
