Clinical Findings of 15 Dogs Serologically Positive for Canine Leptospirosis

Abstract

Clinical investigations of 15 dogs serologically positive for canine leptospirosis showed that many animals with positive titers lived in the Fukuoka urban area. More than half of the infected dogs were such miniature or toy breeds as shih tzu, miniature dachshund, and Maltese. Their ages ranged from 3 months to 14 years without deviation. Most of their clinical signs involved disorders of the digestive system: anorexia for more than 3 days, vomiting, and diarrhea. Although they are thought to be typical of canine leptospirosis, renal features, liver-function disorder, and jaundice, were rarely observed. Neurological symptoms including motioninduced pain and general tonic convulsions were observed in a few cases. High titers of antibodies against L. icterohaemorrhagiae and L. hebdomadis were observed. The presence of pyometra in three of five unspayed bitches suggested that this condition may conceal leptospirosis.