A bacterial outbreak has caused the death or illness of numerous California sea lions along the Oregon coast and a death has also been reported in Long Beach, WA. The disease, known as Leptospirosis, is contagious to humans and other animals and warnings have been issued to stay away from beached sea lions (of course, the Marine Mammal Protection Act recommends 100 yards). The disease causes kidney failure in sea lions and seals. It is spread through the urine of infected animals so always keep your dog on a leash. According to the Orgeon Veterinary Medical Association, the symptoms in dogs include “fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, refusal to eat, severe weakness and depression, renal disease and liver disfunction. Risk factors for dogs include contaminated water.” For the full story and video, click here.