Current perspectives on canine leptospirosis

Abstract

LEPTOSPIROSIS has been recognised as a significant disease of dogs throughout the world for almost a century. Leptospira species are important zoonotic pathogens and are increasingly recognised as a cause of human disease. Leptospirosis and its prevention have received considerable attention as part of the vaccination debate in both Europe and North America. However, this debate has been hindered by an incomplete understanding of leptospiral organisms and their epidemiology, and has led to potentially misleading conclusions about the current risks of infection and the need for vaccination. This article reviews the current understanding of leptospirosis in dogs, and outlines the available strategies for diagnosis and prevention.