01/15/2025
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) has updated its guidelines to recommend that the leptospirosis (lepto) vaccine be considered a core vaccine for dogs. This is a significant change, as lepto was previously considered a non-core vaccine, meaning it was recommended based on individual risk factors.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through contact with the urine of infected wildlife or other animals. It can cause severe illness in dogs, affecting their liver and kidneys, and in some cases, can even be fatal.
The updated guidelines reflect the increased prevalence of the disease, administration of the lepto vaccine as a routine vaccine, regardless of the dog's size, breed geographic location or lifestyle. It is also a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted to humans, which adds to the importance of vaccination.
As always, we’re committed to keeping your pets safe and healthy, and we’re here to discuss any questions you may have about your dog’s vaccination plan.
The AAHA 2023 Canine Vaccination Guidelines have now officially been updated to reflect a change in status of the leptospirosis vaccine from non-core to core.
