Leptospirosis Vaccine

Hello, Wondered if someone would be able to advise me on the leptospirosis vaccine. My dog has already gotten his first dose of Protech C2i. I've asked for his second dose to be 2 weeks after, but the vet has suggested it be 3 weeks instead as they said he might become sick. I asked what they meant by sick and they didn't really give me an answer other than repeating that he might become sick and that it is my own risk if I decided to do that Is 2 weeks too early for his second dose? The dosage instructions for the vaccine online says 2-4weeks, so I would love a second opinion on this. We are to be travelling overseas in 2 months and ideally wanting to have my dog be fully vaccinated as soon as possible in order to stick with our travel schedule.   Thanks! *Dog is 9 and a half month old cocker spaniel, weighing 12kgs

Hi!   I don't know the vaccination you  mention.  However, in the UK all vaccinations should come with a data-sheet, which is that piece of paper (usually folded very small in the medicine box) with dense printing on it about the product.  This sheet lays out the requirements for giving the product successfully, with reasons and backing data.   In the UK, it is reasonable to say 'What does the data sheet say about that?'

Usually, requirements for giving a vaccination do not come from the vet, but from the drugs company who have tested the product rigorously and then have to lay out their recommendations clearly on the data-sheet.   It is the vets job to read, know and follow that data sheet.  They can't sign the vaccination card to say that your dog has been vaccinated correctly, unless the data sheet rules have been followed.   It is possible that 'he might get sick' is a dumbed down code for 'the data sheet says that it has to be three weeks or there is an increased risk of complications'.  If, on the other hand, you do your research and find that the data sheet does in fact say that 2 weeks would be sufficient, then your next question would be to ask your vet to explain why they have chosen three weeks; it could be that they, knowing your dog as they do, have an excellent reason.

I am passionate however that vets communicate fully with their clients: 'He might get sick' is a good explanation that gives the basic information to the full range of clients who might ask.  However, it sounds as though this decision may be at odds with the data sheet (check) and you want a more detailed explanation specific to your pet .   I don't know why your vet elected to vaccinate at that distance apart for that drug in that dog at that time, but I do think that it is reasonable to expect a more detailed, scientific explanation from them.  You may need to ask again for that.

I'm a,so interested in this topic.