Before asking about needing a Leptospirosis vaccine it might be helpful to understand what it is and how your Dane might get exposed to it.
As if there wasn’t enough going on in 2020, an outbreak of Leptospirosis (also called Lepto) began at the end of 2020 here in San Diego.
What is Leptospirosis?
Lepto is caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira. An infection from it can cause major liver and kidney damage and possibly death. While the bacteria is found worldwide it is more common in warm, moist climates. Freezing temperatures do kill the bacteria so some areas may only experience season outbreaks.
How can my Great Dane get it?
Urine is the primary transmission vector which means contaminated water or soil can transmit the bacteria in addition to direct contact with infected urine. Once in the water or soil, Leptospira can be absorbed through mucous membranes, drinking or skin abrasions. A dog can easily become infected from other dogs or other infected animals including skunks, raccoons, opossums, rats, wolves, and deer,
What are the symptoms?
- Dehydration
- Depression
- Diarrhea
- Excess fluid accumulation in abdomen
- Extreme thirst
- Eye inflammation
- Fever
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and mucous membranes)
- Lethargy
- Nosebleeds
- Swollen legs
- Urination frequency changes
- Vomiting
How is it treated?
It can be treated with antibiotics if caught early and treated aggressively. There are 2 phases of antibiotics. The first treats the acute infection. The second removes the lingering, low grade infection found in carrier dogs. If treated there is a 70-80% survival rate.
Leptospirosis vaccine
The first Lepto vaccines for dogs started being used in the 1960’s. The vaccine is given in 2 doses 2-4 weeks apart. It can then be administered as an annual booster. There are 250 strains of the bacteria which are divided into 4 subspecies or serovars. Today’s vaccines provide the best coverage against all four serovars.
Can humans get infected?
Yes, it is a zoonotic disease. While not common, it can be transmitted to a human through contact with their dog’s contaminated urine.
Should your dog get the vaccine?
The big question! Of course the best course of action is to ask your veterinarian about the risks of exposure in your area. Also consider the activities your Great Dane takes part in and the places you travel to.
In San Diego it is being recommended as a core vaccine. Additionally, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine’s hospital considers the it to be a core vaccine for all dogs living in California.
Martok has gotten both his doses of the vaccine. Our vet recommended it considering the outbreaks in our area. Also with the travel we do and how social he is, it only made sense to take the precaution.
Links for additional information
- Leptospirosis in dogs the disease and how to test for it – VCA Hospitals
- Lepto Vaccine Myths – Arizona Veterinary Medical Association
- Leptospirosis vaccine for dogs – great pet care
