Description
Leptospires are tiny, moving spiral bacteria called spirochetes that are found worldwide. Different types of Leptospira can cause disease in animals and humans. Dogs tend to develop leptospirosis from L. australis, L. autumnalis, L.ballum, L. bratislava, L. braviae, L. canicola, L. grippotyphosa, L. harjo, L. icterohaemorrhagiae, L. pomona, and L. tarassovi forms of the bacteria. L. canicola, L. grippotyphosa, L.pomona, and L.bratislava can infect cats. Infections appear to be more common in warm and moist climates, in standing water that is neutral to slightly alkaline pH, and in areas where animals are closely housed, such as kennels and urban settings. In addition, exposure to wildlife and rodents that can carry the bacteria is a significant risk factor.