Dr. B and Andie

I’m a little confused … my old vet told me that all vaccinations are once a year, but my current vet tells me that I need to vaccinate my dog every six months for leptospirosis and Bordetella. Which one is right?

Derek and Monty

Dear Derek and Monty,

In short, they are both correct. Your vet will tailor her vaccination recommendations based on disease prevalence in your area and your dog’s activities.

I would like to discuss leptospirosis now and leave the bordetella discussion for another day. leptospirosis can be life threatening to dogs, and in rare circumstances infect humans. leptospirosis is caused by bacteria (Leptospira) that can be present in the urine of deer, raccoons, opossums, rats, skunks and squirrels. Once the bacteria are excreted in the urine, they can survive for weeks to months in soil or water. Animals can get infected by either sniffing infected soil, or swimming in or drinking infected water.

Because the wild animals that carry the disease are common in most parts of the United States, I recommend vaccinating for leptospirosis every six months. Remember this disease is caused by bacteria, not a virus. Virus vaccines (like Parvo) are usually strong and last one to three years. Bacteria vaccines are much weaker and only last six to 10 months. If your dog is only vaccinated once a year, he could be at risk of contracting the disease four to six months of the year.

I should mention there is some controversy about the vaccine. There are numerous types of Leptospira, and the vaccine does not protect against all types. My philosophy is to protect against what you can. Years ago the Leptospira vaccine protected against only two types, but in the last few years a new vaccine that protects against four types of the bacteria was developed. As science develops better vaccines, protection will get even better.

A dog that is infected with Leptospira might vomit or have diarrhea, be lethargic, or lose his appetite. Blood tests can reveal liver and/or kidney failure and treatment is intravenous fluids and antibiotics. Specific tests for leptospirosis are available but take several days for results to come back. Most vets start treatment when they suspect the disease, and the earlier treatment is started the better the prognosis.

Humans can get leptospirosis as well by coming in contact with infected urine. Wash your hands after contact with diagnosed infected pets and after possible exposure to wildlife urine (like working in the yard or cleaning the shed). By vaccinating your dog against leptospirosis you decrease the likelihood that he will become infected and that decreases the likelihood that you will get infected. Bottom line, talk to your vet.

Dr. Bammel and Andie