If hemorrhaging is severe, blood transfusions may be necessary. Some very mild cases may be treated with rest, vitamins and special diets. These bacteria enter the dog through a break in the skin. As the disease is spread by the urine of an infected animal, it can also enter the dog when he eats contaminated food or drinks contaminated water. Signs of illness occur within five to fifteen days of exposure.
Fever is followed by loss of appetite and listlessness.
The kidneys are primarily affected. Ulcers in the mouth and on the tongue may be present, as well as a thick brown coating on the tongue. There may be bloody diarrhea and increased thirst. The disease is confirmed by the presence of spirochetes in urine or blood tests. Often, dogs can be chronically ill with kidney failure.