Rain, flooding increase health risks for dogs

MANILA, Philippines — Persistent rains and flooding can increase dogs’ exposure to leptospirosis, parasites and other health risks, making preventive veterinary care important even outside the rainy season.

Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines made the reminder Wednesday, Aug. 26, in observance of International Dog Day, urging pet owners to maintain regular veterinary care, vaccinations, parasite protection and good hygiene throughout the year. The company said changes in weather and environmental conditions can increase dogs’ exposure to preventable health risks.

“International Dog Day is a timely reminder that caring for our dogs means taking proactive steps to protect their health,” said Dr. Vincent Casimero, head of the companion animals business segment at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines.

“When we protect our dogs’ health, we also help protect the families and communities around them. Regular preventive care helps pet owners address health risks early and give their dogs the protection they need throughout the year,” Casimero added.

Leptospirosis risk

Heavy rain and flooding can increase exposure to leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that can affect both animals and people.

The bacteria are commonly spread through the urine of infected animals, particularly rodents, and can contaminate water and soil. They can also survive in contaminated soil and water for weeks to months.

“Rats are a major source of infection, and dogs can contract the bacteria through contact with water, soil, or other environments contaminated with infected urine,” Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines said.

“While flooding and stagnant water can increase exposure, leptospirosis can also occur in urban communities where rodents are present,” it added.

READ: Dogs in Cagayan de Oro contract leptospirosis too

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dogs may become infected when wounds or mucous membranes come into contact with water, soil or other materials contaminated with the bacteria.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) said dogs may also be exposed through contact with stagnant or slow-moving water, rodents and wildlife, farm animals, and other dogs in places such as dog parks and boarding or training facilities.

Symptoms can resemble other illnesses

Experts noted that leptospirosis can be difficult to recognize based on symptoms alone because its early signs in dogs are not specific and may overlap with those of other illnesses.

Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines said early signs can include fever, lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea, and advised pet owners to consult a veterinarian promptly if their dogs show signs of illness or may have been exposed to contaminated environments.

The AVMA, meanwhile, explained that signs can vary depending on the strain of bacteria, the dog’s immune response and other factors.

“Some infected dogs have no signs of illness; some have a mild and transient illness and recover on their own; and others develop severe, life-threatening illness,” the organization said.

READ: Heart Evangelista grateful as pet dogs recover from leptospirosis

Other possible signs include loss of appetite, abdominal pain, jaundice, dehydration, increased drinking or urination, weight loss, and stiffness or muscle pain, according to the AVMA.

Bleeding complications may also cause blood-tinged vomit, urine, stool or saliva, as well as nosebleeds and tiny red spots on the gums, other mucous membranes or light-colored skin. The organization added that the disease may also cause fluid to accumulate in the body, resulting in swollen legs or excess fluid in the chest or abdomen.

In more severe cases, leptospirosis can progress to kidney or liver failure and may cause serious lung disease or bleeding disorders.

“Leptospirosis may be suspected based on the exposure history and signs shown by the dog, but many of these signs can also be seen with other diseases. In addition to a physical examination, your veterinarian may recommend a number of other tests such as blood tests, urine tests, radiographs (x-rays), and an ultrasound examination,” the AVMA said.

Prevention goes beyond leptospirosis

Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines said preventive care should continue regardless of the season, with veterinary guidance tailored to a dog’s lifestyle and environment.

“Leptospirosis is an important health risk to watch for, but it is only one of the concerns that can affect dogs. Changes in weather and the environment can also increase their exposure to parasites and other preventable health risks, reinforcing the importance of year-round preventive care,” it said.

“Rainy weather may bring added risks, but preventive care matters in every season. A consistent preventive care routine helps pet owners protect their dogs from a range of health concerns, while regular veterinary guidance can help ensure their dogs receive care suited to their lifestyle and environment,” it added.

READ: How to protect your pets from parvovirus and leptospirosis

It stressed that pet owners can help protect their dogs by:

• Keeping vaccinations up to date based on their veterinarian’s advice.
• Staying consistent with parasite protection.
• Steering dogs away from puddles, stagnant water and floodwater.
• Making sure they have access to clean, safe drinking water.
• Keeping homes and surrounding areas clean to help keep rodents away.
• Scheduling regular veterinary visits to support preventive care and early detection of health concerns.

“By making these practices part of everyday pet care, owners can help give their dogs the protection they need — not only during the rainy season, but throughout the year,” Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines said.

A health issue shared by pets and people

Leptospirosis is also an example of what health authorities describe as a One Health concern because the infection can involve animals, people and the environment.

The CDC warned that animals infected with leptospirosis can spread the bacteria to people through their urine and other body fluids. Infected dogs may also shed the bacteria in their urine, even when they do not appear sick, according to the AVMA.

Boehringer Ingelheim similarly framed preventive animal care within a One Health approach, saying animal, human and environmental health are closely linked.

“Dogs are more than pets — they are part of the family and share the same homes and environments as the people who care for them. Keeping them healthy can also help protect the people and communities around them,” it said.

“Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, Inc. is committed to advancing preventive animal health and responsible pet ownership, working with veterinarians, pet owners, government, and industry partners to support healthier animals, families, and communities,” it added.

“This International Dog Day, show dogs the love they deserve — talk to a veterinarian about year-round preventive care and the protection your dog needs.” /dm