Leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that affects both people and animals, is transmitted from dog to dog by exposure to bodily fluids, bite wounds or ingesting infected tissue. It may also be picked up from infected water or bedding. The vaccination for leptospirosis consists of a "killed" vaccine and many dogs suffer adverse reactions. While leptospirosis is a serious disease, certain vaccine reactions are also debilitating. Leptospirosis immunity is only good for six months following vaccination and some vets recommend only high-risk dogs receive the shot.
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Anaphylactic Reactions
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An anaphylactic reaction is the most serious reaction to a vaccine, as it is life-threatening. These reactions are most common when killed vaccines are injected. Although the reaction is relatively rare, immediate action must be taken to save the dog's life. While anaphylactic reactions usually take place shortly after the vaccination, they can occur within 24 hours. Symptoms include sudden onset of vomiting or seizures, or the dog may simply collapse. Give epinephrine as soon as possible. Veterinarians should have it on-hand and for those who give their own shots, it can be ordered with the vaccines.
Injection Site Reaction
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Some facial swelling has been reported with dogs given the leptospirosis vaccine. Other dogs experience swelling and pain at the injection site, which may occur with a number of other vaccines, as well. In some cases, abscesses may form at the injection site in a reaction to a vaccination. Signs of an injection site reaction include swelling, inflammation, pain and soreness. If the symptoms last longer than a week, or if abscesses occur, contact your veterinarian. Discuss whether the risks outweigh the benefits of the leptospirosis vaccine if the dog has an injection site reaction.
Urticaria
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Some dogs experience hives after receiving the leptospirosis vaccine. Also known as urticaria, the hives appear shortly after the immunization, causing skin bumps and intense itching. Usually, antihistamines relieve the problem. Veterinarians may also administer corticosteroid drugs to bring relief. Once a dog has this reaction, it is likely to happen with future leptospirosis vaccinations, so discuss whether vaccine protocols should be changed for the dog or whether this particular vaccination is necessary given the dog's lifestyle. A city dog that never goes outdoors except on a leash, for example, may have little risk of leptospirosis exposure.
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