Warning for Dog Owners as Rare “Weil’s Disease” Cases Spike Near London
Dog owners near London are on alert. A rare but deadly disease, leptospirosis—aka Weil’s disease—is on the rise, with vets at a specialist animal hospital near Hitchin seeing a worrying surge in cases.
Leptospirosis: The Invisible Threat to Dogs and Humans
Leptospirosis is caused by bacteria that wreck vital organs like the liver and kidneys. It spreads through the urine of infected animals such as rats, mice, cows, pigs, and dogs. Both pets and humans can catch it.
Spike in Cases at Davies Veterinary Specialists
Before the pandemic, vets at Davies Veterinary Specialists in Hitchin treated just two or three leptospirosis cases a year. Now, it’s almost one case every month. The increase has raised red flags about pet safety in the area.
How Dogs Get Infected
- Direct contact with infected dogs
- Sniffing or licking areas soiled by infected dog urine
- Exposure to urine from cows, pigs, or rodents
- Walking or drinking from infected wet soils or freshwater, where bacteria can survive for months
Vaccines are available for dogs, so owners are urged to check in with their vets immediately.
What About Humans?
Humans can catch leptospirosis if infected water or soil enters the eyes, mouth, or cuts; or by touching infected animal blood or flesh. The NHS stresses it’s very rare to catch it from pets or other people.
Symptoms to Spot and Treatment
- High fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea
- Red eyes
- Yellowing skin or eyes (jaundice)
Most cases cause mild flu-like symptoms, but severe infections need hospital care. Antibiotics are the main treatment, alongside painkillers like paracetamol. Complete the full course even if you feel better.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Pets
- Wash your hands thoroughly after touching animals or their products
- Keep wounds clean and covered with waterproof plasters
- Wear protective gear if your job exposes you to risk
- Shower immediately after contact with potentially contaminated water
- Vaccinate your dog against leptospirosis
Need More Info?
For full details on Weil’s disease, visit the NHS website or the PDSA site. If you suspect infection in yourself or your pet, contact your GP or vet immediately.
