In severe cases it leads to shock and death. Puppies that recover are often left with residual cardiac abnormalities. This spirochete attacks the dog's kidneys and liver. Infection results from contact with the urine of infected dogs, rats and other wild animals. The organism is frequently found in ground water pools, ditches and slow moving waterways.
Symptoms can be severe and include loss of appetite, fever, jaundice and internal bleeding.
The prevalence of this disease varies with geographical location. It is readily transmissible to humans. This virus causes vomiting, diarrhea, inappitance and lethargy. It can be very severe in puppies, even lethal, especially if acting concurrently with other viruses. This condition can be caused by several airborne viruses and bacteria acting together or on their own.