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Does my dog need a leptospirosis vaccine if we live near wildlife?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Should I vaccinate my dog against leptospirosis? I live in Boise Idaho and live near wildlife. Thanks!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on February 24th, 2017

Leptospirosis is frequently spread via the urine of infected rodents and other mammals. If your dog spends time outdoors or "in the field", the lepto vaccine should be considered. There are many strains, or serovars, of leptospirosis that can infect dogs. It is important to confirm with your veterinarian that the vaccine protects against the 4 most common serovars as opposed to a vaccine that has only 2. An initial vaccine is administered and followed up with a booster 3-4 weeks later, then yearly afterwards.

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