If you have a dog, then you should know that annual vaccinations are recommended to help keep your pup healthy on a long-term basis. And, your veterinarian may suggest different types of shots based on your location, the age of the dog, and the likelihood that your pet will come into contact with the microorganism that causes the disease. In recent years, veterinarians have started to suggest leptospirosis vaccines. Keep reading to learn more about leptospirosis and the vaccination schedule.
What Is Leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that is caused by Leptospira bacteria. The infection is spread through the urine and fecal matter of infected animals and, until recently, leptospirosis was considered a rare disease. This is one reason why the vaccination was not always recommended for canines. However, since humans have continually edged closer and closer into natural habitats, the disease has started to appear in dogs across the United States.
Leptospira bacteria can be found in any area where an infected animal may relieve themselves. This means that bodies of water like streams, ponds, and lakes are problematic when it comes to the spread of the bacteria and so are sections of soil across your backyard. Soil that lines a wooded area is most likely to be contaminated, but wildlife is likely to move across your yard, so any area is a potential source of the infection.
Leptospirosis is dangerous because it can lead to both kidney and liver failure in your dog. Before this occurs though, your canine will experience some flu-like symptoms so antibiotics treatment can be provided in time before any permanent damage occurs.
What Is The Vaccine Schedule For Leptospirosis?
If you have an older dog, then your canine can receive the leptospirosis vaccination at any point. And, you will need to arrange for a yearly booster shot when the other vaccinations are due. If you have a puppy, then your dog can start on the vaccines at around the 12-week age mark with additional vaccines given at 16 weeks. Basically, your puppy can receive the vaccination along with the rest of the shots that are appropriate for that age range.
Like other vaccinations, you can expect some mild side effects that include redness at the injection site as well as a low-grade fever and maybe a bit of joint pain. However, most dogs tolerate the leptospirosis vaccination as well as they do their other shots. To learn more, contact a vet office like Stewartstown Vet Services.
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