Acute canine leptospirosis complicated by urinary bladder stones in a Shih Tzu dog

Abstract

Leptospirosis is an important zoonotic bacterial disease with increasing global prevalence. Concurrent canine leptospirosis and urinary obstruction resulting from urolithiasis are rare. We report a 3‐year‐old male Shih Tzu dog diagnosed with acute canine leptospirosis by PCR, presenting with vomiting, abdominal pain, icterus, severe dehydration and brown‐coloured urine. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed urinary bladder and obstructive urethral stones. Complete blood count, serum biochemistry and urine analysis were performed. Haematological analysis revealed severe thrombocytopenia and leukocytosis with left shift. Serum biochemistry showed bilirubinemia and increased hepatic and renal parameters. Urine analysis revealed bilirubinuria, haemoglobinuria and bacteriuria. Treatment with doxycycline and fluid therapy was initiated and continued for 2 weeks. After stabilisation, the patient was referred to the surgical department for cystotomy. This case emphasises the importance of early recognition and appropriate management of leptospirosis, particularly when complicated by urolithiasis, and also emphasises the need for clinicians to maintain a comprehensive perspective on concurrent diseases.