Abstract

Background:
Leptospirosis is a major worldwide health concern that is brought on by pathogenic spirochetes from the genus Leptospira. Dogs are a significant reservoir host, particularly in shelter environments where the risk of transmission is increased by overcrowding and poor sanitation.

Aim:
The study's goals were to find Leptospira in protected dogs for the first time, define the leptospira molecularly, and perform a phylogenetic analysis to ascertain the similarities and differences in the sequenced gene among strains from nearby nations.

Methods:
Eighty blood and urine samples were taken from sheltered dogs between May and August 2025 while they were under general anesthesia. The samples were then submitted to DNA extraction and conventional PCR that targeted the conserved secY gene using phylogenetic analysis and sequencing.

Results:
Leptospirosis DNA was found in 23 samples (28.75%), comprising 11 urine samples (13.75%) and 12 blood samples (15%). Male dogs aged two to three years had the highest infection incidence (23.1%), whereas female dogs had the highest rate (23.5%).

Conclusion:
These results highlight the critical need for comprehensive surveillance programs, enhanced biosecurity procedures, and vaccination plans in shelter settings throughout the Kurdistan Region.

Key words: Canine leptospirosis; Kurdistan Region; Molecular detection; SecY gene; Zoonosis.