The County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) said today that an outbreak of infectious bacterial disease, leptospirosis, has been reported in dogs in the region.
Since October October, 34 confirmed and probable cases of leptospirosis have been reported in domestic dogs, mainly in the Hillcrest and Mission Hills areas. Some dogs needed to be hospitalized and at least one was evangelized.
Boarding in kennels that allow dog-to-dog interaction is a major risk factor, although some sick dogs only had contact with other dogs in dog parks. The kennels associated with the kennel notified the owners of all possible contacts of the diagnostic cases and kept them closed for at least two weeks for cleaning and disinfection.
Signs of leptospirosis in dogs vary and can include fever, muscle weakness, vomiting and diarrhea, loss of appetite, low energy, and frequent urination, which can be bloody.
There are no human cases associated with this outbreak in dogs, but anyone who develops a fever, headache, muscle aches (especially in the back and calf) or other illness after contact with a sick dog should see their health care provider.
This week, the HHSA advised local pathologists and veterinarians about the health disease outbreak.
Leptospirosis is a disease caused by a variety of spirochete bacteria called Leptospira. These bacteria infect many species of mammals, including humans, dogs, rats, mice, raccoon, skunks, and opossums. Bacteria are excreted in the urine of infected animals and can contaminate food, water, soil or bedding. Dogs and people can become infected through direct contact with skin friction, mucous membranes or drinking contaminated water.
“When dogs visit kennels and parks and play, lick and sniff each other, they are at risk of contracting these bacteria,” said Wilma Wooten, MD, the county’s public health officer. “If your dog shows any signs, you should take him to your vet immediately.”
A vaccine is available to prevent leptospirosis in dogs, especially for those riding in kennels and dog parks in the morning.
.
