THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT OF CANINE LEPTOSPIROSIS: SUPPORTIVE PROTOCOLS AND ANTIBIOTIC THERAPY

Abstract

Canine leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease with a global distribution, caused by pathogenic spirochetes of the genus Leptospira, presenting high clinical, epidemiological, and public health relevance. In dogs, it manifests in a multisystemic and clinically variable manner, often evolving to acute kidney injury and liver dysfunction. This work is a literature review aiming to discuss current antibiotic therapy and clinical support strategies in the therapeutic management of canine leptospirosis. The findings indicate that treatment should be initiated early, even in the clinical suspicion phase, with antibiotic therapy being essential for controlling bacteremia and eliminating renal colonization, associated with individualized supportive therapies according to the affected organs. It is highlighted that effective control of canine leptospirosis requires a multidisciplinary approach, well-established therapeutic protocols, and rigorous biosecurity measures, aiming at patient recovery and reducing the risk of zoonotic transmission.