Article written by Dr. Grant Jacobson and first appearing as a blog at hometownveterinarian.com, December 2024
As a veterinarian in Marshalltown, Iowa, I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastation that leptospirosis can cause in dogs. This bacterial disease is not only life-threatening to pets but also poses a serious health risk to humans. Yet, many pet owners remain hesitant about vaccinating their dogs due to concerns over vaccine reactions. Let me explain why the latest generation of vaccines has completely changed the game—and why the leptospirosis vaccine is now considered essential for all dogs.
Leptospirosis: A Core Vaccine for All Dogs
This year, the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM), the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) announced a historic consensus statement: the leptospirosis vaccine should be considered a core vaccine for all dogs.
Why this change? Leptospirosis is a devastating disease that can result in kidney failure and death in dogs. The bacterium that causes leptospirosis is spread through the urine of infected animals, including rodents and wildlife.
In the past, it was thought that only outdoor hunting dogs in wet areas were at risk. However, improved testing has shown a substantial increase in cases across all settings and environments. Today, indoor dogs in urban areas and dry climates face a significant risk, as well as outdoor dogs in rural or wetter climates.
Puppies Are Especially at Risk
While leptospirosis can affect dogs of any age, puppies are especially vulnerable. Their curious behavior, like putting anything and everything into their mouths, increases the chance of coming into contact with contaminated water, soil, or objects.
Additionally, puppies urinate frequently and often in areas that require people to clean up after which can put people into contact with the bacteria. For these reasons, vaccinating puppies early is critical to keeping them safe.
Leptospirosis in Marshalltown: A Local Concern
Leptospirosis isn’t just a problem in faraway places—it’s here in our community. I’ve personally watched dogs in Marshalltown, Iowa, succumb to this disease. The heartbreak of losing a beloved pet to something preventable is something no family should have to face.
By vaccinating a dog, the owner is not only protecting the pet from a potentially fatal illness but also helping to shield the family from exposure.
A New Era of Leptospirosis Vaccines
If you’ve hesitated to vaccinate your dog for leptospirosis because of fears of vaccine reactions, I completely understand. I’ve been in practice long enough to remember the days when allergic reactions to lepto vaccines were a common concern. Twenty years ago, I often expected to see at least two allergic reactions per month from the older vaccine formulations.
Thankfully, those days are behind us. Today’s vaccines, such as the Recombitek Leptospirosis vaccine that we use here at The Hometown Veterinarian, are far safer. Since switching to this newer generation of vaccines, I’ve seen zero allergic reactions in my patients—an incredible improvement that gives me confidence in recommending this vaccine to every dog owner, even for puppies.
The Importance of Asking Questions
When considering a leptospirosis vaccine, I encourage pet owners to ask specific questions about the vaccine being used:
- What vaccine brand or formulation does your clinic use?
- What is the track record for allergic reactions or side effects?
- How does this vaccine compare to older versions?
These questions matter. Not all vaccines are created equal, and it’s worth knowing that the one used for a dog is both safe and effective.
Prevention is Key
The good news is that leptospirosis is preventable. In addition to vaccination, here are a few tips to reduce a dog’s risk:
- Avoid letting a dog drink from puddles, ponds, or other stagnant water sources.
- Limit a pet’s exposure to wildlife and areas where rodents or other animals may urinate.
- Talk to a veterinarian about vaccinating a dog, especially if the pet is active outdoors or in areas where leptospirosis is common.
A Vaccine You Can Trust
Leptospirosis is a serious threat, but it’s one we can fight with today’s safe, effective vaccines. If you have concerns about vaccinating your dog, let’s talk. I’d be happy to share more about why we trust the nonadjuvanted Recombitek Leptospirosis vaccine and answer any questions you might have.
Together, we can protect your dog—and your family—from this dangerous disease.
If you’re ready to schedule your dog’s leptospirosis vaccine or want to learn more, give us a call at 641-758-3333 or click to Request an Appointment today.