Leptospirosis

Service Description

The earliest a leptospirosis vaccination is recommended to be 12 weeks of age (some say as early as 8 weeks). The vaccine protects against 4 types (canicola, icterohaemorrhagiae, grippotyphosa, pomona) Regardless of age, after the initial dose a booster is required in 3-4 weeks, then yearly. About Leptospirosis: Leptospirosis vaccination is generally given if it has been determined your pet is in a high exposure risk area. It is generally transmitted via infected urine and moist environments contaminated by infected animals (usually wildlife). If you live close to a wildlife area, go to dog parks or areas where other dogs reside often it is definitely recommended to get the vaccine. Leptospirosis mainly affects the liver and kidneys and causes fever, sepsis, and anemia. Treatment consists of intravenous fluids, antibiotics (such as penicillin or doxycycline), and possible blood transfusion (if anemia is severe). Strict isolation and disinfection is warranted in these cases because not only is it contagious to other pets, but can be transmitted to humans as well.