Assessing the Prevalence of Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by exposure to urine from an infected animal, usually wildlife. It can cause life-threatening kidney, liver and blood disease and affects humans and animals worldwide. Due to the exposure from wildlife surrounding urban areas, all breeds of dogs are susceptible to infection but canine leptospirosis may be more commonly recognized in sporting or hunting breeds. Although the risk of infection in dogs may have increased in the last decade, such assessments are complicated by lack of large-scale epidemiological data, limitations of diagnostic tests, differences between the various strains of the bacteria, and limited understanding of the specific immune response of infected dogs. This study will investigate the frequency and distribution of leptospirosis infection in dogs across the United States and determine the molecular characteristics of the different strains of the bacteria. While the molecular information will help improve diagnostic tests and vaccines, the epidemiological data will assist in managing the risk and spread of this deadly disease.

D08CA-500
Dr. George E. Moore, Purdue University

Co-sponsors: Pfizer Animal Health; Anonymous; American German Shepherd Dog Charitable Foundation; Neil and Sylvia Van Sloun, The Van Sloun Foundation; The Elton John Charitable Fund; Ms. Ann Campbell; The Canine Health Events & Southern Berkshire Golden Retriever Club; Samoyed Club of America Education & Research Foundation; Merck Animal Health