03/07/2025
Leptospirosis Alert for Pet Owners in Cabanatuan City
Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial disease that poses a growing threat to pets—and people—in Cabanatuan City. It can cause severe kidney and liver damage, and in some cases, can be fatal. Even more concerning, it’s zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans.
What Pet Owners Should Know:
🦠 Understanding Leptospirosis
How it Spreads:
Through contact with urine from infected animals (wildlife, rodents, or other pets)
Exposure to contaminated water (puddles, ponds, streams) or wet soil
Bacteria enter via mucous membranes (mouth, nose, eyes) or wounds
Symptoms in Dogs:
Fever
Lethargy, depression, weakness
Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite
Increased thirst and urination (may decrease with kidney failure)
Joint/muscle pain, reluctance to move
Jaundice (yellowing of eyes, gums, or skin)
Nasal and eye discharge
In severe cases: organ failure, bleeding disorders, breathing difficulty
Cats: Rarely show symptoms but can still carry the bacteria.
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✅ Prevention is Key
To protect your pets and family, take the following steps:
1. 💉 Vaccinate Your Dog
Consult your local vet about the leptospirosis vaccine
Requires an initial series + annual boosters
2. 🚫 Avoid Contaminated Water
Keep pets away from puddles, stagnant water, and streams
Bring clean water during outdoor walks
3. 🐭 Practice Rodent Control
Seal trash, store pet food securely, and prevent rodent entry
4. 🦝 Limit Wildlife Contact
Keep pets away from wild animals and carcasses
5. 🧼 Maintain Good Hygiene
Wash hands after handling pets, especially if exposed to wet environments
Clean indoor accidents using a 1:10 bleach solution
Wear gloves and discourage dogs from urinating in public/shared areas
⚠️ What to Do If You Suspect Leptospirosis
Contact a Vet Immediately if your pet shows symptoms
Report any possible exposure to your vet
Take human health precautions—avoid direct contact with your pet’s urine and consult a doctor if exposed
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📍 Local Risk
While exact pet infection rates in Cabanatuan City are unknown, the Philippine Department of Health has reported rising human cases of leptospirosis in Nueva Ecija, confirming the bacteria’s presence in the environment.
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🐾 Protect Your Pets. Protect Your Family.
With vigilance and preventive care, you can significantly reduce the risk of leptospirosis for your beloved animals.
