Can my dog get sick from drinking puddle water?

Yes, they can catch leptospirosis from puddles contaminated with infected animal urine. The bacteria can live in standing water for weeks or months, particularly in warm, wet conditions, and can cause serious liver and kidney problems if untreated.

Does the leptospirosis vaccine completely protect my dog from puddles?

Not completely. The vaccine covers the most common strains but not all of them, so there's still a small risk even with up-to-date vaccination. That said, it does make a significant difference and is absolutely worth keeping current.

What are the first signs my dog has leptospirosis?

Early signs are often vague — your dog might seem off-colour, less interested in food, lethargic, or running a temperature. As it progresses, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle stiffness, or yellowing of the gums and eyes, which indicates liver problems.

Dogs on the Hills

Why that muddy puddle might not be as harmless as it looks

If your dog treats every puddle like a free buffet, here's what you need to know about leptospirosis — the bacterial infection lurking in standing water that can damage their liver and kidneys, and why your annual vaccinations matter more than you might think.

29 September 20267 min read