Most UK vets advise routinely vaccinating dogs against leptospirosis (commonly called lepto) as part of their yearly booster injection. This also protects against distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and parainfluenza.
While the leptospirosis vaccine is not currently a required immunization for dogs, it is highly recommended for any dog that commonly goes outside, even just to go to the bathroom in the backyard.
Side Effects of the Leptospirosis Vaccine
Side Effects of the Leptospirosis Vaccine
Reactions to the leptospirosis vaccine usually take the form of lethargy for a few days and possibly loss of appetite. In some dogs an anaphylactic shock-like reaction may occur shortly after vaccination.
Where we give the vaccine: Scruff area between the shoulder blades. What to expect: It is uncommon, however soreness or mild swelling at the injection site can occur. Lethargy for the first 24 hours after vaccination is common and not worrisome. This is a core vaccine.
Earlier versions of the leptospirosis vaccine were reported to have higher risks for side effects than other common vaccines for dogs.Symptoms of a leptospirosis vaccine reaction include:
This study confirmed the safety of Canigen® DHPPi/L(R) vaccine, even in the extreme conditions of the repeated administration of overdoses during pregnancy. Canigen® DHPPi/L(R) is therefore a safe multivalent vaccine for pregnant bitches and their offspring.
Also, yearly booster shots are needed for lepto to maintain immunity, unlike the core vaccines that can often be given every 3 years after the initial series. Considering all that, if a dog is late for it's first booster or annual shot, the default is to restart the entire series.
Leptospirosis Vaccine Schedule for Dogs Puppies who are at risk of contracting leptospirosis can receive their first lepto shot as early as 8-9 weeks of age, but many experts recommend waiting until 12 weeks of age. Then, puppies should receive a booster vaccine 2 to 4 weeks later and then annually thereafter.
Vaccination does not always prevent infection, but it tends to make the disease much milder if infection occurs. There is the potential for vaccinated dogs that do become infected to become long-term carriers of Leptospirosis.
Reactions to the leptospirosis vaccine usually take the form of lethargy for a few days and possibly loss of appetite. In some dogs an anaphylactic shock-like reaction may occur shortly after vaccination.
Annual revaccination is recommended for dogs at sustained risk of exposure to the leptospirosis disease-causing organism. Dogs at exceptionally high risk should be vaccinated every six to nine months throughout the period of their continued high risk of exposure.
Currently available vaccines effectively prevent leptospirosis and protect dogs for at least 12 months. Annual vaccination is recommended for at-risk dogs. Reducing your dog's exposure to possible sources of the Leptospira bacteria can reduce its chances of infection.
Prevention. Because leptospirosis is considered a re-emerging infectious disease in dogs,10 with incidences having readily increased in recent years,1112 and due to the persistence of numerous species of Leptospira bacteria in the environment,13 vaccination is recommended for preventing infection in dogs.