Llewellin Setters Breeders Blog

Our wonderful stud dog, hunting friend and companion Bryn, was euthanized this month due to Kidney failure.

This devastating event was brought on by an infection of Leptospirosis which never presented any obvious symptoms until rapid weight loss and general malaise gave us concern. Despite aggressive treatment with antibiotics and IV hydration therapy the damage to the organs was irreversible.

We have always given all adult dogs inoculation against Lepto but frankly we were not as up-to-date on this disease as we should have been. We do suggest that all dog owners, especially Hunting Dog owners, familiarize themselves by reading some of the excellent materials on line.

There are in fact about 8 different strains of Leptospirosis and at present there are no vaccines which will protect your dog from all of them.  The best ones offer protection for about four strains.  In addition the vaccines are only effective for about 6 to 8 months.

You need to keep this in mind and re-vaccinate on a regular schedule

Infection is possible from many sources and the disease can be passed to humans as well.   The infected dog can pass it on by urine and body fluids. Most infection is probably picked up in the field by drinking infected water where Rats, Raccoons, mice etc. have been present.

Cats do not have a problem with Lepto.

We have been able to purchase a male pup from the last litter sired by Bryn and will be offering him at stud when he has matured and done his hunting apprenticeship.  The line will continue as we also have access to several other of Bryn’s offspring.

Please initiate a vaccination schedule for all of your dogs to protect them the best you can from this horrible affliction.  Try to keep drinking from stagnant water sources outside to a minimum and get the dog checked out if suffering from symptoms like shivering, weight loss, excessive drinking and urination.   Be sure to read up the subject on line and be informed.

Keith Smith    October 2008.