How many lepto shots do dogs need?

The Leptospira genus of bacteria is the source of the illness lentospirosis. This bacteria can infect a variety of mammals, including humans, dogs, and, sporadically, cats. It is widespread throughout the world. Because the illness is zoonotic, it can spread from infected animals to people. Dogs typically become infected by touching water or soil contaminated with animal urine.

Canine leptospirosis cases have increased recently, and the bacteria is more prevalent in warmer, wetter climates. The Midwest, East, and Southwest regions of the United States report the most canine leptospirosis infections, though positive cases are reported in every state (1).

OverviewLeptospirosis is a potentially serious disease caused by the bacterium Leptospira interrogans. It affects dogs but can also infect a wide variety of domestic and wild animals as well as humans. The organism is usually spread through infected urine, but contaminated water or soil, reproductive secretions, and even consumption of infected tissues can also transmit the infection. Introduction of the organism through skin wounds can also occur. Common carriers of the organism include raccoons, opossums, rodents, skunks, and dogs. The leptospirosis organisms rapidly advance through the bloodstream leading to fever, joint pain, and general malaise. Because the organism settles in the kidneys and actually reproduces there, inflammation and even kidney failure may develop. Unfortunately, liver failure is another common sequela to infection. Kidney and liver failure both have deadly consequences.

For pups, the initial vaccine is administered at 12 weeks old and repeated two to four weeks later.

For older puppies (over four months old) or adults receiving the leptospirosis vaccine for the first time, two doses two to four weeks apart are recommended.

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.

Due to the prevalence of numerous species of Leptospira bacteria in the environment and the fact that leptospirosis is regarded as a re-emerging infectious disease in dogs, incidences have rapidly increased in recent years, vaccination is advised for preventing infection. Four of the most prevalent Leptospira interrogans serovars (or subspecies) linked to the disease in dogs are protected against by vaccination.

Manufacturers of the Leptospirosis Vaccine for Dogs

In the US, the following leptospirosis vaccines are approved for use in canines:

Manufacturer	Product Name
Zoetis	Vanguard L4
Merck Animal Health	Nobivac Lepto4
Elanco	Ultra Duramune 4L
Boehringer Ingelheim	4Lepto

Each of the aforementioned manufacturers additionally provides the lepto vaccine along with the DAPP core vaccine.

Currently, no leptospirosis vaccine is thought to be either safer or more effective than the others.

FAQ

Do dogs need a lepto shot every year?

Yes. To maintain immunity against leptospirosis, dogs need an annual lepto booster shot.

How often should a dog be vaccinated for lepto?

Revaccinating annually is often needed to maintain best immunity. Currently, only the four-serovar vaccine is suggested by medical professionals.

How long is a dogs leptospirosis shot good for?

canicola bacteria, was demonstrated. Therefore, it was determined that a duration of immunity of one year against infection with both serovars can be obtained using this vaccine and this vaccination schedule.

Is lepto one or two shots?

Lepto vaccine usually requires two doses given 2-4 weeks apart, followed by yearly boosters. To ensure a strong immune response, we need that initial 2-4 week booster (unlike the modified live virus (MLV) core vaccines I mentioned in Part 1).