Leptospirosis, Canine and Feline - contd.
A vaccine is available that provides protection to the more common types of Leptospira bacteria. Dogs in areas of risk should receive three vaccines, given three to four weeks apart; from that time on, they should receive vaccines on a yearly basis. Other prevention steps include keeping rodents away from the animal's environment, since rodents often are carriers of the bacteria. In addition, animals should be kept away from areas in which the bacteria thrive, such as stagnant water, marshes, ponds, and muddy areas. Humans should avoid contact with the urine of animals.
