Leptospirosis Vaccines - An update

The manufacturers of our leptospirosis vaccines have made the decision to discontinue supply of L2 to all veterinary practices. This is in response to reviewing the updated WSAVA (World Small Animal Veterinary Association) guidelines.

 

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU AND YOUR PET

All dogs currently vaccinated with L2 will have to transition to L4 at their yearly booster. This will entail two vaccinations, 4 weeks apart. To support this transition, Donnington Grove Vets will  be supplying the second vaccination for your pet, free of charge*. 

 

If your dog already receives the L4 vaccine, there will be no change to your annual booster regime. If you are not sure which vaccine your dog usually receives, there is no need to worry. Your vet will discuss it all at your booster appointment.

*Free of charge second vaccines are only available for those dogs transitioning from L2 to L4. If your dog's vaccines have lapsed then the full charge of a restart will be applicable.

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FAQs

What is the difference between Nobivac® Lepto2 and Nobivac® L4?

Nobivac® Lepto 2 and Nobivac L4 are both vaccines that protect dogs against leptospirosis. Nobivac Lepto 2 gives protection against 2 bacterial strains of leptospirosis and Nobivac L4 gives protection against 4 bacterial strains of leptospirosis. Over the last 15 years the strains causing leptospirosis in dogs across Europe and the UK has changed and there are more strains that can cause disease. Nobivac L4 was developed as a result of these changes and gives broader protection to dogs against leptospirosis.   

What is Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis (often called lepto) is an infectious bacterial disease. It is a potentially lethal zoonotic disease, which means it can be transmitted from animals to people.

It is commonly spread through contact with water and soil contaminated with the urine of infected wildlife, particularly rats and rodents. While once mostly associated with rural

environments, lepto has spread into urban and suburban areas. The spread of leptospirosis puts virtually every dog, from the biggest breeds to toy-sized terriers – and even humans – at risk for disease.

What are the signs of Leptospirosis

Some infected dogs do not show any signs of illness, some may have mild illness and recover, while others could develop severe illness, which can even result in death. Signs of leptospirosis in a dog can include the following:

• Fever

• Vomiting and diarrhoea

• Changes in urination

• Yellow mucous membranes (whites of eyes and gums)

• Lethargy

• Loss of appetite

Since many of the signs can also be seen with other diseases, in addition to a physical examination, a number of other tests may be recommended such as blood tests, urine tests, x-rays and ultrasound examinations. 

How serious is leptospirosis?  

Leptospirosis can be fatal or have serious life-threatening effects on the kidneys, liver, brain, lungs, and heart. Even dogs that recover may still be at risk for chronic liver failure. In fact, it is estimated that 80-90 % of dogs that develop short-term but serious 

kidney problems are at risk for chronic kidney failure.    

How does leptospirosis spread? 

The bacteria that cause leptospirosis are spread through the urine of infected animals, which can get into water or soil and survive there for weeks or months. These bacteria enter the body through the mucous membranes, in particular those of the eyes, nose, or mouth, or through a cut or scratch. If the bacteria reach a dog’s kidneys or bladder, the dog can spread the bacteria further each time they pass urine.