Dr. Jenna Olsen at B Street Veterinary Hospital said there are many different strains. The bacteria is more common in wet climates like Northern California and can infect rats, cows and even sea lions. And in rare cases, it has been passed on to humans.
“We’ve had quite a few dogs in the last month alone hospitalized,” said Dr. Olsen. “Because a lot of dogs really haven’t had the exposure risk down here, it’s not something that we commonly vaccinate for."
It was news to people at Nate’s Point Dog Park in Balboa Park.
“We haven’t worried too much about it because we know she’s up to date on her vaccines and her flea meds. But knowing that, there’s always a risk," said Matt Halpin, a dog owner.