The San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency has reported an outbreak of leptospirosis, a contagious bacterial disease, in area dogs.

Leptospirosis are bacteria that can be found in soil and water.  Dogs are most commonly affected but it can also be transmitted to humans.

The symptoms of the disease can range from mild to severe. Here in San Diego, several of the infected dogs had to be hospitalized or euthanized.

Symptoms of leptospirosis infection include:

• Fever
• Shivering
• Muscle tenderness
• Reluctance to move/lethargy
• Changes in thirst and urination
• Dehydration
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Jaundice
• Eye inflammation

Leptospirosis can lead to a wide range of health problems, such as kidney/liver failure, lung disease, bleeding disorders, and accumulation of fluids in the body.

Affected dogs require veterinary care, including antibiotics and supportive care.  A vaccine for leptospirosis is available and recommended for dogs in high-risk areas.

Here in San Diego, health experts are reporting that kennels and dog parks/dog beaches are a prime source of the spread.  Dogs that come into direct or indirect contact with the urine of other dogs (or wild animals such as rodents, raccoons, and skunks) are at risk of infection.

What can you do to help prevent the spread and protect your dog?  Public health experts recommend keeping the rodent population in your immediate area under control.  Try to prevent your dog from coming into direct or indirect contact with the urine of other animals.  This includes bodies of water like rivers and lakes.

If your dog does become infected, be sure to wash your hands immediately after touching him or other items like bedding.  Use an antibacterial cleaner or bleach and water on any surfaces contaminated by your pet’s urine.

Interested in learning more?  You can watch this video on the San Diego outbreak from KPBS News:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OU3qsHcMeWo&w=560&h=315]