Rainy days, muddy puddles, or stagnant water — they might seem harmless to most. But for dogs, especially those living on the streets, these everyday environments can carry a dangerous and often underestimated threat: Leptospirosis.
"At Stray Shedders, our mission isn’t just to feed or shelter stray animals — it’s to protect their health. Understanding diseases like leptospirosis is one more way we can be their voice, their shield, and their family."
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria. It affects both animals and humans (a zoonotic disease), and is usually spread through contaminated water, soil, or urine of infected animals — often rats.
Dogs can get infected when they:
It’s a disease that thrives in poor sanitation — making stray dogs especially vulnerable.
Leptospirosis can show up in different ways, from mild illness to severe organ failure. Watch out for signs like:
Early detection is critical. Left untreated, leptospirosis can be fatal.
Yes — if caught early. Antibiotics and supportive care can save a dog’s life. But sadly, most strays don’t get to the vet in time. That’s why prevention and awareness are key.
For stray dogs, the risk of leptospirosis is high — and rising with urban expansion and poor drainage. These dogs walk barefoot, sleep on damp ground, and drink from whatever water source they find. They don’t get a choice.
We can choose to spread awareness.
We can choose to act.
We can choose to care — because stray lives matter.
At Stray Shedders, we’re building India’s first AI-enabled platform for stray care — connecting feeders, rescuers, and animal lovers in one united mission: to protect every stray’s life and dignity.