Rats and mice carry many different diseases that can spread through their urine. Leptospirosis is one such illness that can pose a risk to all members of your household, but your pet dog is at the greatest risk. Mice removal, wildlife control in Milwaukee, and other measures can help you reduce the risk of infection. 

What Is Leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection. It is sometimes referred to by the abbreviated name of “lepto.” Leptospirosis can be serious. Possible complications include respiratory distress, liver failure, meningitis, and kidney damage. 

What Wildlife Species Carry Leptospirosis?

Rodents, including rats and mice as well as squirrels, are the most common carriers of leptospirosis. The bacteria is also found in the urine of skunks. 

How Does Leptospirosis Spread?

Leptospirosis spreads when the bacteria that causes it comes in contact with the mucous membranes, such as the linings of the mouth and nose, or an open wound in the skin. It most frequently occurs due to contact with soil, water, or other objects contaminated with the urine of an infected animal. If an infected animal were to bite you or your dog, it could also spread that way. 

Can Humans Get Leptospirosis?

Humans are susceptible to leptospirosis. It is zoonotic, which means that it can spread from animals to people. However, it is unlikely that you will catch leptospirosis from your dog. Humans are more likely to catch it from recreational activities in contaminated bodies of water, such as lakes or rivers. 

What Are the Symptoms of Leptospirosis?

Dogs infected with leptospirosis may exhibit symptoms of lethargy, muscle tenderness, fever, and uncontrollable shaking. They may become dehydrated and exhibit increased thirst as a result. They may experience diarrhea and vomiting and, because of associated bleeding disorders, their excrement may be tinged with blood. Because leptospirosis causes liver failure, a common symptom is a jaundice, which is a yellowing of the whites of the eyes or the mucous membranes. Leptospirosis can cause difficulty breathing. 

Leptospirosis can range in severity. Some dogs develop severe illnesses that can be fatal, while other dogs recover completely following a course of mild symptoms. Some dogs never show any symptoms at all. 

Is Leptospirosis Treatable?

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can be treated with antibiotics. The likelihood of complete recovery is better with early diagnosis and treatment, so it is important to observe your dog’s condition closely and see the vet as soon as possible for any troubling symptoms. Even if your dog recovers from leptospirosis with treatment, there is still a chance of damage to the liver or kidneys that is permanent. 

How Can You Prevent Leptospirosis?

You can prevent your dog from getting leptospirosis by preventing him or her from having any close contact with wildlife. For example, before you let your dog out into the backyard at night, you can turn on the porch lights to scare off any animals that might be lurking out there. During daily walks, you should always keep your dog on a leash and prevent him or her from eating anything on the ground or drinking out of dirty puddles. 

The presence of rodents in the house can expose both you and your dog to leptospirosis. If rats, mice, and squirrels have entered your home, you should have them professionally removed. 

Mice Removal Wildlife Control in Milwaukee From Skedaddle

As part of the humane wildlife removal services we provide, we perform decontamination of your property. Our trained and skilled technicians thoroughly clean the areas where the rodents have been to remove any pathogens that could make you or your household sick. We also prevent the animals from coming back through exclusion. Find out more about the services available from Skedaddle in Milwaukee.