There are two main changes we are making to our current protocols based on
recommendations made by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association
(WSAVA), an independent global community of veterinary experts.
Part of their work involves constantly reviewing disease, including new strains of
pathogens both within the UK and globally. Recommendations are regularly
reviewed, and advice is given based on the current risks to our pets.
Change 1.
Leptospirosis vaccinations for dogs.
The first change being made as of 1st January 2025 is the discontinuation of the
Leptospirosis 2 (L2) vaccinations. The major vaccine manufacturers have made
the decision to discontinue the production of their L2 vaccines to all veterinary
practices and it seems likely the remaining vaccine manufacturers will follow suit.
Over the years, the strains causing Leptospirosis in dogs across Europe and the UK
have changed and will continue to do so. There used to be only 2 serovars
(strains) causing disease in our dogs but there are now 4 known serovars which
can infect dogs. The Leptospirosis 4 (L4) vaccine has been available and used for
many years alongside the L2 however, experts now strongly suggest vaccinating
against all 4 serovars.
Adult dogs currently vaccinated with L2 will be given the L4 vaccine at the time of
their booster. To achieve effective immunity against all serovars, a second L4 only
will be given four weeks later by one of our veterinary nurses. There will be no
additional charge for the second L4 vaccination for the first 12 months as the
vaccine manufacturer will be providing these additional doses to us free of
charge.
There has been concern (especially in the dog press) over the safety of L4
vaccine as opposed to L2. All vaccines carry a small risk of adverse reaction, but
these risks are very low. The risk to dogs is much higher by leaving them
unvaccinated. It is important to remember that Leptospirosis can be transmitted
to humans and like in pets, it is a life-threatening disease.
Change 2.
Alteration to our primary vaccination course for puppies and kittens.
The WSAVA have made changes to their recommendations as to when to
vaccinate puppies and kittens, due to concerns about a small percentage of
individuals that have a poor response to vaccination. This lack of response is due
to a slower reduction in the natural antibodies (passed from mum to offspring in
the milk) in some animals.
Unfortunately, it is impossible to know which animals have this issue without
repeated blood samples to check the antibody levels.
For this reason, the WSAVA now recommend in addition to the first two
vaccinations, a third vaccine from 16 weeks of age in order to ‘mop up’ these
individuals without sufficient immunity. They also suggest it may be sensible to do
the first booster at 6 months of age rather than at 1 year.
We are therefore going to offer an optional third vaccination, to be administered
by a nurse from 16 weeks of age for those that wish to go with the ‘belts and
braces’ approach. This will be at an additional cost of £27.50.
If you would like more information or have further questions, please don't hesitate
to get in touch and our team will be happy to discuss in more detail.
Thank you for your continued support.