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Urgent Warning to Sydney Pet Owners as Severe Weather Elevates Leptospirosis Risk and Flood Hazards
As Sydney faces intense rainfall and flash flooding this week, Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) is urging all pet owners to take immediate action to protect their animals from rising dangers, including a surge in Leptospirosis cases and life-threatening environmental hazards.
“With these unprecedented downpours, the risks to pets increase dramatically,” warns Nadia Crighton, spokesperson for Pet Insurance Australia. “Beyond the heightened threat of Leptospirosis, we are deeply concerned about the dangers of fast-moving water, overflowing drains, and hidden debris that can easily injure or trap animals.”
Leptospirosis: A Growing Threat in Wet Conditions
Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial infection spread through the urine of rodents, particularly rats. Dogs can contract it by drinking or even walking through contaminated puddles, ponds, and floodwaters — conditions now widespread across Greater Sydney.
“Many dog owners don’t realise just how quickly this disease can spread after heavy rain,” Crighton says. “Any stagnant water could be contaminated, and it only takes a moment for a curious dog to drink from a puddle.”
PIA strongly encourages pet owners, especially those in high-risk urban and flood-affected areas, to speak to their veterinarian about Leptospirosis vaccination, which is safe and effective when given in advance.
Flood-Related Hazards Beyond InfectionAlongside infection risks, severe rain brings a host of other dangers:
“It’s critical to keep pets on a lead and away from flooded parks, drains, and fast-moving water,” Crighton advises. “Even a shallow current can knock a dog off balance.”
Practical Safety Tips for Pet Owners
To help keep pets safe during this weather event, Pet Insurance Australia recommends:
✔️ Keep dogs on a lead and avoid flooded walkways, creeks, and parks
✔️ Prevent dogs from drinking out of puddles, gutters, or temporary ponds
✔️ Ensure your home and yard are free from food scraps that could attract rats
✔️ If you suspect a rodent problem, contact a pest control professional immediately
✔️ Consider on-lead walks only until conditions improve
✔️ Speak to your vet about early Leptospirosis vaccination
Know the Signs of Leptospirosis
If your dog shows any of the following symptoms, seek veterinary care urgently:
“Because Leptospirosis symptoms can mimic other illnesses, it’s crucial to tell your vet if your dog has had any contact with floodwater,” Crighton adds.
Pet Insurance Australia reminds all pet owners that prevention and vigilance are the strongest protections during severe weather events.
“Please exercise extra caution around any standing or moving water, and don’t underestimate how quickly these hazards can develop,” Crighton concludes. “Educating yourself now can save your dog’s life.”
“Many dog owners don’t realise just how quickly this disease can spread after heavy rain,” Crighton says. “Any stagnant water could be contaminated, and it only takes a moment for a curious dog to drink from a puddle.”
PIA strongly encourages pet owners, especially those in high-risk urban and flood-affected areas, to speak to their veterinarian about Leptospirosis vaccination, which is safe and effective when given in advance.
“Please deter your pets from playing and running into any flood waters or puddles,” Crighton warns.
Flood-Related Hazards Beyond InfectionAlongside infection risks, severe rain brings a host of other dangers:
- Rushing floodwaters that can sweep pets away in seconds
- Overflowing stormwater drains and pipes that create hidden currents
- Sharp debris or contaminants in muddy flood zones
- Electrical hazards and toxic substances washed into public areas
“It’s critical to keep pets on a lead and away from flooded parks, drains, and fast-moving water,” Crighton advises. “Even a shallow current can knock a dog off balance.”
Practical Safety Tips for Pet Owners
To help keep pets safe during this weather event, Pet Insurance Australia recommends:
✔️ Keep dogs on a lead and avoid flooded walkways, creeks, and parks
✔️ Prevent dogs from drinking out of puddles, gutters, or temporary ponds
✔️ Ensure your home and yard are free from food scraps that could attract rats
✔️ If you suspect a rodent problem, contact a pest control professional immediately
✔️ Consider on-lead walks only until conditions improve
✔️ Speak to your vet about early Leptospirosis vaccination
Know the Signs of Leptospirosis
If your dog shows any of the following symptoms, seek veterinary care urgently:
- Fever or shivering
- Muscle pain or stiffness
- Lethargy or weakness
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Loss of appetite
- Increased thirst or urination
- Difficulty breathing
- Dark red gums or nasal discharge
“Because Leptospirosis symptoms can mimic other illnesses, it’s crucial to tell your vet if your dog has had any contact with floodwater,” Crighton adds.
“A specific test is needed to diagnose this infection, and delays in treatment can be fatal.”Stay Alert, Stay Prepared
Pet Insurance Australia reminds all pet owners that prevention and vigilance are the strongest protections during severe weather events.
“Please exercise extra caution around any standing or moving water, and don’t underestimate how quickly these hazards can develop,” Crighton concludes. “Educating yourself now can save your dog’s life.”
MEDIA RELEASE, Sydney, Australia, 1st July, 2025
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