Animal Health Alert: Unexplained illness affecting multiple dogs in the Venice Canals area

Key Points:

Dear Veterinary Colleagues,

On July 28, 2025, the Veterinary Public Health Program (VPH) of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LAC-DPH) was notified by local residents of multiple dogs in the Venice Canals neighborhood experiencing acute onset of severe illness with some cases resulting in death.

Affected dogs were of varying ages and breeds, and reportedly healthy prior to illness. The onset of clinical signs is typically acute with rapid deterioration in some dogs requiring emergency care within hours of illness onset. Commonly observed clinical signs include vomiting, inappetence, sudden lethargy and weakness or paresis, seizures or tremors, and acute collapse. The cause of illness remains unknown at this time and an active investigation is underway. VPH will share updates as more information becomes available.

VPH extends our heartfelt condolences to the families and pet owners of the dogs that were affected or that have passed. We sincerely appreciate the time, effort and valuable information shared by pet owners and members of the Venice Canals community.

Guidance for Veterinary Practices
For Pet Owners:
The following recommendations should be communicated to pet owners

For Veterinary Professionals
Collect a detailed history when seeing suspect cases, including:

REPORT all suspected cases to VPH

Veterinarians and animal health workers are also encouraged to contact us with any questions or for case consult via phone: 213-288-7060 (Monday—Friday, 8 AM—5 PM) or email: vet@ph.lacounty.gov.

Sincerely,