The Challenge: A Puppy in Trouble

During the physical examination, Drs Elena Mitchell and Jessica Green found that Velli was dehydrated and unusually quiet for a young Staffordshire Terrier. His vitals were stable, and he had no fever; however, his clinical presentation suggested that something significant was happening internally. Blood tests revealed elevated kidney and liver values, along with mild anaemia.

A urine test showed glucosuria, an abnormal finding that raised immediate concern. Elena suspected leptospirosis, a serious bacterial infection that can cause kidney and liver damage. A PCR test was sent immediately. The results confirmed the diagnosis. Leptospirosis is a potentially fatal disease, it is Zoonotic also so can spread to people, but with prompt intensive treatment, recovery is possible.

We recommended immediate hospitalisation with aggressive fluid therapy and targeted antibiotic treatment. Leptospirosis damages the kidneys and liver, making intravenous fluids essential to flush the bacterial toxins from Velli’s system and support organ function. Before starting treatment, we explained to Velli’s owners that he would need at least four days of continuous care in our hospital ward.

Our comprehensive approach included round-the-clock intravenous fluid therapy, antibiotics specifically chosen to combat leptospirosis, anti-nausea medication to encourage eating, and pain relief to keep him comfortable. Throughout his stay, our nursing team closely monitored his hydration status, kidney function, and overall comfort.

During Velli’s hospitalisation, our veterinary nursing team provided continuous supportive care in our dedicated ward. Intravenous fluids ran constantly, carefully calculated to match his hydration needs and support his compromised kidneys. The antibiotic protocol targeted the leptospira bacteria while our team monitored for any adverse reactions.

Anti-nausea medication helped settle his stomach, and pain relief ensured his comfort throughout the recovery process. Velli’s owners received twice daily updates on his progress, including details about his fluid intake, urination output, and energy levels. Our nurses spent time with Velli regularly, offering gentle reassurance and monitoring his response to treatment. The consistent care and close observation were crucial to his recovery. As the disease is contractable by people, we treated Velli in out isolation unit with a full PPE kit needed.

“Our nurses spent time with Velli regularly albeit it covered head to toe in protection, ensuring he felt safe and comfortable while his body fought the infection.” – Vet HQ Team

Recovery involved four days of intensive intravenous therapy in the hospital, followed by careful monitoring at home. Velli’s owners played a crucial role by carefully following discharge instructions and monitoring for any signs of relapse. By day five, the transformation was remarkable. Velli was eating enthusiastically, well hydrated, and showing his playful Staffie personality again.

We scheduled a recheck appointment a few days after discharge to ensure he maintained his hydration levels and appetite. Our team provided detailed guidance about monitoring for any concerning signs, including lethargy, reduced appetite, or changes to his drinking and urination patterns. Velli’s blood values would need rechecking to confirm his organs had recovered fully.

If your dog becomes lethargic, stops eating, or seems unwell, prompt veterinary care can make all the difference. At Vet HQ, our experienced team provides emergency diagnostics and intensive hospital care to give your pet the best chance of recovery.

Call Darlinghurst on (02) 9358 2566 or Double Bay on (02) 9326 1255.

We’re here for your pet when they need us most.