At Vets to Pets, our mission is to make every veterinary visit a positive experience for both pets and their owners. By offering gold-standard, Fear Free care in the comfort of your own home, we combine expert medical services with thoughtful education and genuine connection, building trust one visit at a time.

Keeping dogs healthy is our top priority. While many pet owners are familiar with vaccines like DA2PP and Rabies, Leptospirosis is another important vaccine that is sometimes overlooked. This bacterial infection can cause serious illness in dogs and is zoonotic, meaning it can also infect humans.

What is Leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is caused by Leptospira bacteria, which dogs can contract from contaminated water, including ponds, lakes, puddles, or standing water, as well as soil or grass exposed to urine from infected wildlife such as raccoons, skunks, or rodents. Once infected, dogs can show symptoms ranging from mild lethargy to severe illness affecting the liver, kidneys, and other organs. If untreated, leptospirosis can be life-threatening.

Common signs of infection include fever or shivering, loss of appetite, vomiting or diarrhea, increased thirst or urination, jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or gums), and lethargy or depression. Because these symptoms can resemble other illnesses, a proper diagnosis requires veterinary testing. Early vaccination and prompt medical attention are essential for protection.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Fever or shivering
  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Increased thirst or urination
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or gums)
  • Lethargy or depression

Because symptoms can resemble other illnesses, diagnosis requires veterinary testing. Early vaccination and prompt medical attention are key to prevention.

Leptospirosis Vaccination

  • Who should get it: All dogs should get the Leptospirosis vaccine, as it is now considered a core vaccination. Dogs in rural, suburban, or high-rainfall areas are at higher risk.
  • Schedule: Puppies receive a two-dose series, 2 to 4 weeks apart. Adult dogs receive a single dose if previously unvaccinated, with annual boosters recommended for ongoing protection.

Why Vaccination Matters

Vaccination provides crucial benefits. It protects your dog from serious illness, including kidney or liver failure. It also safeguards your family, since humans can contract leptospirosis from infected dogs or contaminated water. Additionally, vaccinated dogs help reduce the spread of bacteria to other animals and the environment, supporting overall community health

At Vets to Pets

We work with every client to create a personalized vaccination plan. Keeping your dog safe from leptospirosis is part of a broader mission: supporting our community. Protect your dog, protect your family, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your pet has the best preventive care available.