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We all understand the importance of protecting dogs against Leptospirosis, but now more than ever, it’s important that our clients do, too. For those of us whose visits slow down at the beginning of the year, this is a perfect time to reach out to your clients with a call to action.

You should be able to easily run a report in your software to see who’s missing or behind on their Lepto vaccines and send them a targeted email like this:

Dear Client’s Name,

XYZ Animal Hospital is committed to keeping your pets healthy and happy, which is why we wanted to share that recent guidelines from the American Animal Hospital Association have designated the Leptospirosis vaccine as a core vaccination for all dogs.

Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial disease that can lead to severe health issues in dogs and can also be transmitted to humans. Given its prevalence and potential severity, we strongly recommend starting the Leptospirosis vaccination series for your dog as soon as possible.

The vaccination protocol involves two initial doses four weeks apart, followed by annual boosters. Our records indicate that [Pet’s Name] is due for or has never received their Leptospirosis vaccine.

Please contact us at 111.111.1111 or Email Address/App Info to schedule your dog’s vaccination appointment.

Protecting you and your pets is our top priority!

We can also promote awareness through our social media channels with something like this:

🐾 Protect Your Pup from Leptospirosis! 🐾

Did you know that leptospirosis is now considered a core vaccine for all dogs? This serious bacterial disease can cause severe health issues and is transmissible to humans. Ensure your furry friend is protected by starting their vaccination series today.

📞 Call us at 111.111.1111 to schedule an appointment today.

You know your clients best. Would a discount be an incentive to get them in? If so, consider half-price tech exams for those starting the booster series and current on their exams or 10 percent off the vaccine series if started before 01.31.25.

And don’t forget to educate your staff! Here’s a cheat sheet for you to print out and share:

The Leptospirosis vaccine has recently been elevated to a core vaccine due to growing evidence of the disease’s increasing prevalence and risks. While it was previously considered “non-core,” recommended based on a dog’s lifestyle and geographic risk, several factors have prompted the change:

• Increased Prevalence:
  Leptospirosis cases have been rising in both rural and urban areas due to increased interaction between pets and wildlife.
• Wider Risk Factors:
  It was previously thought only certain dogs in high-risk areas or with outdoor lifestyles were susceptible. However, new research shows that even urban and indoor dogs can contract the disease.
• Severe Health Risks:
  Leptospirosis can cause life-threatening conditions such as kidney and liver failure. Additionally, as a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from animals to humans, it poses health risks to pet owners and their families.
• Improved Vaccine Safety and Efficacy:
  Earlier concerns about adverse reactions to the vaccine, particularly in small breeds, have been addressed with updated vaccine technology. The current vaccines are safer and more effective, providing robust protection with minimal risk.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by Leptospira spp., which affects both animals and humans.

The bacteria are commonly found in soil and water and are transmitted through direct contact with the urine of infected animals. Dogs commonly contract Leptospirosis by drinking, walking through, or swimming in contaminated water.

All dogs are at risk, regardless of age, breed, or living environment. Given the increasing prevalence, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) now recommends the Leptospirosis vaccine as a core vaccine for all dogs.

The clinical signs of Leptospirosis in dogs are varied and can include:

• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes)

In dogs, it can lead to severe health issues, including kidney and liver failure and can be fatal if untreated.

Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent severe complications.

The treatment for Leptospirosis in dogs typically involves a combination of supportive care, such as IV fluids and antibiotics. Infected dogs need to be isolated, as Leptospirosis is highly contagious.

All dogs are at risk, regardless of age, breed, or living environment. Given the increasing prevalence, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) now recommends the Leptospirosis vaccine as a core vaccine for all dogs.

Requires an initial series of two injections, four weeks apart, starting in puppies as young as 12 weeks. Annual boosters are required.

By recommending the vaccine and proactively reaching out to clients to emphasize the importance of Leptospirosis vaccines, we’re aligning with the latest evidence-based veterinary practices to provide the best possible protection for pets and their owners.

Written by Meghan Bingham, CVPM