Leptospira is a bacterial disease that can be found in most animals. The bacteria are passed via the urine into water sources, where they can reside.  Leptospira is prevalent in rural, suburban and urban areas.  In downtown L.A. we have the unique circumstances of many species sharing the streets.  While the Lepto bacteria can be present in any stagnant surface water, in the streets of DTLA it would be more commonly found in the urine of infected rodents, humans and/or dogs.

Dogs can become infected with Leptospira by drinking, swimming or walking through contaminated water or urine.  The bacteria enter the bloodstream through a cut in the skin or through mucous membranes like eyes, nose or mouth.   This is a contagious disease and can be spread not only from dog-to-dog but also from dog-to-human.  While the disease is rarely fatal, it can cause severe illness.  In dogs the signs of Leptospira may include fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, weakness and/or jaundice (yellow color) of the gums and whites of the eyes.  In more severe cases, kidneys and liver disease may develop.

Proper hygiene and vaccination can go a long way to reducing your dog's risk of contracting Lepto.  People, especially those with weak or underdeveloped immune systems, should wash their hands after petting the dog.  Not allowing your dog to "kiss" you on the mouth will also decrease your chances of accidentally ingesting infected urine.

Diagnosing Leptospria can sometimes be a challenge, often requiring numerous blood and urine tests.  The diagnostic process can be frustrating and costly.  To help protect your dog from this potentially fatal disease, vaccination is key.  For our DTLA dogs, we recommend an initial two-shot vaccine series and then yearly Lepto vaccinations.  While no vaccine guarantees 100% protection from a disease, the Lepto vaccine does help to greatly decrease your dog's chances of becoming sick from exposure to the disease.  And prevention is always a smart move!