An outbreak of leptospirosis spreading through a population of sea lions in coastal Oregon has health officials warning dog owners about the contagious disease. Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease associated with serious symptoms including kidney failure, liver damage, and death.
Since late September, officals have recieved an alarming number of reports of sick and dead sea lions on beaches in Lincoln, Tillamook, and Clatsop counties. A researcher at Oregon State University’s Marine Mammal Institute said there are at least eight confirmed cases of leptospirosis in local seal lions, and the disease has also spread to areas in California.
While leptospirosis occurs worldwide, seeing a serious outbreak in a population of marine animals is relatively rare. The last known cases of the disease in Oregon happened in 2010.
The infected sea lions are coming onto shore and putting every animal that comes in contact with them at risk. Leptospirosis is spread through contact with an infected animal’s bodily fluids, and it can easily pass between sea lions and dogs. Dog owners are urged to keep their pets at least 50 feet away from any sea lion they find near the shore. They should also keep their dogs from coming in contact with standing water or puddles where the disease may also be present.
If a dog shows sign of illness, like vomiting, lethargy, or rapid heart rate, it’s recommended to see a veterinarian immediately. Treatment for the disease involves professionally prescribed antibiotics. The sooner the antibiotics are in their system, the better the dog’s chances of survival. There is also a vaccination available to protect dogs against contracting the disease.
Awareness of the situation is key in preventing the disease from spreading to pets. Oregon residents are encouraged to share this information with everyone they know and contact the Oregon State Police at 1-800-7888 if they spot a sick or dead sea lion.
