Leptospirosis Vaccine Unveiled.

Understanding Leptospirosis? Leptospirosis, often referred to as Lepto, is an infectious disease that has been observed in animals frequenting stagnant water sources such as ponds, lakes, and puddles. These water bodies can become contaminated with the Leptospira bacteria found in the urine of rodents and wild animals. This bacterium can enter the body through mucous membranes, such as the mouth and nose, as well as open wounds.

Urban areas with dense populations of rodents, particularly rats, are known to be hotspots for Leptospirosis. It’s worth noting that this bacterial toxin does not survive in flowing water, and it thrives in warm, moist conditions, particularly during rainy seasons and in tropical climates. Furthermore, it can persist in wet soil or marshy areas for up to 180 days.

It’s important to clarify that pets contracting Lepto is a rare occurrence. “Contraction” in this context implies that the body’s defenses are temporarily weakened, allowing the toxin to take hold. In such cases, affected dogs may experience severe illness for a period of two to three weeks. Conversely, healthy dogs exposed to Lepto may never display any symptoms.

Leptospirosis is classified as a Zoonotic disease, which means it can be transmitted from animals to humans. Human exposure typically occurs when individuals with compromised immune systems come into contact with the urine of an infected animal. The highest incidence of human toxicity from Lepto has been reported in Hawaii, USA, where rats breed year-round and pose a notorious threat to agricultural crops.

What remains uncertain, without thorough investigation, is whether the term “Lepto” conceals toxicity stemming from the use of herbicides and pesticides like glyphosate (Round-up). These chemicals are employed as weed killers in urban areas and extensively on crops, ultimately contaminating water systems shared by both animals and humans.

The Second Most Dangerous Vaccine

Leptospirosis vaccines were introduced for dogs in North America in 2001. By 2021, Veterinary Public Health noted a significant rise in reported cases of confirmed and suspected Lepto infections. In the UK, Canine Health Concern conducted a survey that indicated the vaccine might be causing the very disease it claims to prevent.

The contents of the Leptospirosis vaccine, excreted through animal urine, pose a toxic threat to other animals that come into contact with it. Remarkably, the Leptospirosis vaccine ranks as the second most dangerous vaccination, with the highest incidence of adverse reactions in dogs, surpassed only by the rabies vaccine.

Both Lepto and rabies vaccines fall into the category of “killed” or “inactivated” vaccines and contain additional heavy metals as adjuvants. Some veterinarians suggest administering two initial doses of the Lepto vaccine to “prime the system,” followed by yearly booster shots, despite the high occurrence of adverse reactions.

One might question whether this practice is an unethical ploy to bring clients in more frequently. Regardless of the motive, adhering to this regimen exposes your beloved canine companions to a significant toxic burden, potentially jeopardizing their lives.

Lepto Vaccine Dilemma

While a human vaccine for leptospirosis has been deemed unsafe and ineffective, our beloved furry companions are still receiving it. Sadly, they cannot vocalize their concerns or express how they feel, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. It’s perplexing that the lepto vaccine, which has been withdrawn from the market for humans, continues to be administered to dogs.

Curiously, there isn’t a lepto vaccine available for cats, and the reasons behind this absence remain somewhat elusive. The prevailing belief is that cats do not exhibit symptoms of lepto contraction, and some sources even suggest they possess a degree of resistance. It’s intriguing to note that pets not receiving lepto vaccinations appear to remain entirely free of “lepto” infections.

In the realm of livestock, a lepto vaccine known as Leptoshield is administered to cattle, sheep, goats, and deer. This vaccine comes in two forms, “Shield 5” and “3-way,” with the numbers indicating the number of strains the vaccine purportedly safeguards against. Just as with dogs, cattle are susceptible to lepto, and interestingly, cases of lepto in cattle gained attention after they were vaccinated against it.

For our canine companions, there are two lepto vaccines available: Lepto2 and Lepto4, purportedly offering protection against 2 and 4 strains of leptospirosis, respectively. While you may hear claims that Lepto2 elicits a milder reaction, in truth, both vaccines can provoke significant adverse reactions. Even with Lepto4, which supposedly covers more strains, Dr. Jean Dodds, DVM, points out that vaccine manufacturers assert its effectiveness against four strains, whereas allegedly seven strains pose a threat to dogs’ health, and hundreds of strains are said to exist in total.

One might wonder why all mammals are not provided with a vaccine offering protection against all seven strains, given this scenario. The variation in lepto vaccines appears to be driven by patents and marketing strategies, which can capitalize on the notion of “more variants.” Regrettably, these claims often lack robust scientific backing and serve to obscure the truth while capitalizing on pet owners’ concerns and affection, ultimately boosting pharmaceutical companies’ profits.

The question arises: will the vaccine effectively shield your pet against two or four strains of lepto? Vaccine manufacturers caution that lepto vaccines are not 100% effective. Is it worth the rare risk of your pet succumbing to the vaccine when lepto itself is a relatively rare threat? The answer, in all likelihood, is no. Voluntarily and consistently subjecting your pet to a lepto vaccine may pose a greater danger.

Safer and More Effective Preventative Measures

Effective, non-lethal measures exist to protect your dog from environmental toxins, obviating the need for needle injections or pharmaceutical drugs that may introduce further toxicity.

When Lepto Toxin Poses a Life-Threatening Situation

In the unlikely event that your pet is diagnosed with lepto and faces a life-threatening emergency, Dr. Jean Dodds advises against using the vaccine, stating that, as it is a bacterium and not a virus, antibiotics like Doxycycline and tetracycline are more suitable for treatment. She suggests these antibiotics have been found effective in curing the disease when it reaches a critical stage. Following this treatment, detoxification can help eliminate any lingering toxins, including those resulting from allopathic drugs.

If your pet’s lepto toxicity is not life-threatening, antibiotics may not be necessary, and you can consider consulting a homeopathic veterinarian or herbalist for support if you suspect your pet is unwell due to lepto.

Rawlinson (Doglistener) concurs with Dr. Dodds, explaining that lepto is easily treatable with Doxycycline, which can safely clear the organism from the kidneys, making it effective against both bloodstream and urinary tract infections.

As an alternative to the antibiotic approach, you could explore emergency protocols involving MMS or CDS, rather than resorting to antibiotics and other conventional treatments.

Leptospirosis Vaccine Adverse Effects

Lepto vaccines, particularly when administered to miniature dog breeds, have been associated with alarmingly high rates of adverse reactions. Astonishingly, documented cases suggest that the very antigens contained in the lepto vaccine can manifest the very toxic symptoms they are designed to prevent. Below are some frequently observed side effects following leptospirosis vaccination:

• Seizures
• Anaphylaxis
• Aggression
• Behavioral disturbances
• Ataxia (loss of coordination)
• Reduced red blood cell count
• Decreased white blood cell count
• Low platelet levels
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Polyarthritis
• Liver necrosis
• Facial paralysis
• Lethargy
• Depression
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Increased thirst and urination
• Blood in urine
• Jaundice (yellowing of mouth or eye whites)
• Rapid breathing
• Irregular pulse rate
• Coughing up blood
• Tarry stools
• Nosebleeds
• Red or purple skin spots
• Tumors
• Autoimmune disorders
• Uncontrollable itching
• Dehydration
• Pain
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Persistent weight loss
• Dermatitis
• Pancreatitis
• Liver failure
• Kidney failure
• Mast cell disease
• Enlarged spleen
• Cirrhosis
• Cancer
• Fatality

The list of potential side effects serves as a stark reminder of the serious risks associated with leptospirosis vaccination. Pet owners are encouraged to weigh these risks carefully and consider alternative strategies to protect their furry companions from this disease.

Safeguarding Against Lepto Vaccine Impact and Detoxifying Heavy Metals

Detoxifying heavy metals plays a pivotal role in bolstering your pet’s overall well-being, particularly if they’ve undergone vaccination. Heavy metals can debilitate the body’s systems, posing neurotoxic threats and inducing organ stagnation, rendering the body susceptible to pathogens. Post heavy metal detox, organ functionality improves, elimination pathways strengthen, toxins can be expelled more efficiently, and vitamin and mineral assimilation is enhanced.

A heavy metal detox subsequent to a leptospirosis vaccine helps avert the swift deterioration of health associated with the vaccine’s heavy metal burden. High levels of aluminum, a primary adjuvant in the leptospirosis vaccine, are a cause for concern and are linked to many of the vaccine’s gravest and incapacitating side effects. Notably, aluminum foreign bodies have been detected in tumor biopsies of vaccinated dogs afflicted with cancer.

Dietary Considerations

Maintaining your pet on a well-balanced, fresh, whole foods diet stands as a paramount measure in nourishing their health, fortifying vital organs, optimizing blood health, and bolstering immunity—all of which are interconnected and instrumental in preventing toxins from gaining the upper hand. Essential amino acids earned their “essential” designation because your pet’s body cannot produce them autonomously; they are indispensable for cellular function and overall well-being.

Together, essential and non-essential amino acids play a pivotal role in immune function and nutrient transport. The source, quality, and digestibility of proteins are crucial factors to consider. The protein in kibble-based foods does not interact with your pet’s body in the same manner as fresh, whole meats. Kibble-based protein derives from low-quality sources and is heat-treated, undergoing dehydration and conversion into sugar within your dog’s body. Moreover, kibble-based protein lacks moisture, placing a burden on the kidneys, which, in turn, taxes the liver.

Incorporate essential fatty acids, including Camelina and green-lipped mussel omega-3 oils, into your pet’s diet. Diseases, pathogens, and cancer thrive in inflamed environments, and omega-3s help quell inflammation. Vital fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, D, and K necessitate fats for absorption.

Opt for whole food vitamin and mineral sources over synthetic counterparts. Synthetic (lab-created) vitamins lack bioavailability, frequently contain toxic preservatives or fillers, and are deemed toxins by the liver, burdening its function. In contrast, whole food vitamins and minerals are duly recognized, received, and absorbed.

Dogs produce their own vitamin C, but during periods of stress, illness, and post-vaccination, the dog’s liver may become compromised, reducing vitamin C production. Dogs require a healthy liver to synthesize sufficient levels of vitamin C. Utilize whole food sources of vitamin C, such as amla or acerola fruit supplements, which are naturally high in vitamin C and bioflavonoids.

Lifestyle Choices

In addition to a wholesome diet, maintaining a low-stress environment and ensuring daily exercise is imperative for supporting your pet’s well-being. Pets necessitate a minimum of 30 minutes of daily outdoor activity. Chronic stress precipitates a host of adverse effects, including excessive cortisol production, which can strain the kidneys, thyroid, and adrenal glands, as well as compromise the immune system. It’s crucial to remember that your stress can become your pet’s stress; therefore, managing your stress levels also benefits your pet.

Nurturing Robust Kidney and Liver Health

The leptospirosis vaccine poses a significant threat to the liver, leading to cirrhosis and potentially culminating in acute or chronic kidney or liver failure, which may result in death in at least 20% of reported cases of vaccination reactions (Note: This statistic reflects reported cases and could potentially be higher, as not all vaccine reactions are reported or linked to the vaccine).

Lepto itself acts as a liver toxin, underscoring the importance of maintaining strong liver and kidney health in your pet to thwart pathogenic intrusion. Subtle signs (listed below) may hint at the need for kidney or liver support, and addressing these indications holistically before they escalate is prudent. Regular at-home health assessments empower you to support your pet’s well-being and bolster their defenses proactively, well before toxic overload threatens their lives.

Signs of Liver Weakness:

1. Yellowing of the gums
2. Yellowing of the whites of the eyes
3. Development of lipomas (fatty lumps)
4. Restlessness or pacing during the night between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m.
5. Increased anger, aggression, or irritability
6. Oozing of yellow discharge from the eye
7. Recurring conjunctivitis

Signs of Kidney Weakness:

1. Lying down while eating
2. Paddling movements during sleep
3. Weakness in the hind legs
4. Chronic ear infections
5. Recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs)
6. Skin pigment discoloration on the nose
7. Deterioration or demineralization of teeth
8. Chronic anxiety

Although these signs may seem subtle or benign in your dog’s current state, addressing them promptly by incorporating supportive remedies can prevent more dire consequences (such as organ failure) in the future.

Supportive Measures for Dogs After Lepto Vaccination or in Preventing Lepto Toxicity

If your pet has already received the leptospirosis (lepto) vaccine, the following remedies come highly recommended. For those who have adopted dogs, it is crucial to inquire about vaccination records to ascertain whether your dog has previously received the lepto vaccine. These remedies serve to fortify your pet’s health and play a vital role in averting the detrimental effects of toxins like leptospirosis on their well-being.

Whole Plant Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Tincture Dandelion boasts properties that invigorate the urinary system, effectively staving off urinary tract infections (UTIs) that may arise following vaccination. It acts by stimulating the liver, enhancing bile production, and promoting the flow of bile into the gallbladder. This aids both digestive and detoxification processes. The lepto vaccine has been known to induce lymphatic system stagnation, and Dandelion serves as a lymphatic system stimulant, facilitating waste elimination, aiding nutrient assimilation, and mitigating or averting swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy). Dandelion is especially beneficial for dogs with liver congestion and various forms of liver insufficiency, including those who have received the lepto vaccine.

In cases where liver inflammation and jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the eyes and gums, result from the lepto vaccine, Dandelion provides relief. Furthermore, it proves effective in soothing or preventing chronic skin conditions that often emerge following liver stagnation. Dandelion also contributes to pharmaceutical detoxification processes within the liver and kidneys, making it especially relevant for pets with a history of pharmaceutical drug use, as this increases their vulnerability to vaccine-related harm.

Suggested Dosages: Administer away from meals twice daily

• Extra-Small Dogs: 1 drop
• Small Dogs: 6 drops
• Medium Dogs: 9 drops
• Large Dogs: 11 drops
• Extra-Large Dogs: 13 drops

Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) Seeds Milk thistle plays a crucial role in safeguarding the liver from toxins and facilitating its regeneration in the event of damage. It also aids in stabilizing mast cells, which are implicated in severe vaccine reactions. The stress response initiated by vaccination triggers the sympathetic (fight or flight) nervous system, potentially leading to persistent restlessness or difficulty in relaxation, ultimately weakening the immune system. Milk Thistle contains prolactin, providing support to the immune system and mitigating the body’s stress response.

Suggested Dosages: Mix into meals twice daily

• Extra-Small Dogs: 1/8 tsp
• Small Dogs: 1/4 tsp
• Medium Dogs: 1/2 tsp
• Large Dogs: 3/4 tsp
• Extra-Large Dogs: 1 tsp

Artichoke (Cynara scolymus) Leaf Given the hepatotoxic nature of leptospirosis and the lepto vaccine, Artichoke leaf serves as a valuable shield for the liver. It is employed in the treatment of both primary and secondary liver issues. Artichoke leaf shares similar actions with Milk Thistle seeds, and when used in conjunction, these two remedies synergistically enhance each other’s effectiveness.

Suggested Dosages: Mix into meals twice daily

• Extra-Small Dogs: 125 mg
• Small Dogs: 200 mg
• Medium Dogs: 275 mg
• Large Dogs: 375 mg
• Extra-Large Dogs: 450 mg

Stinging Nettles (Urtica Dioica) Infusion

Incorporating daily stinging nettles infusions into your pet’s routine can contribute significantly to their well-being. Stinging nettles aid in the restoration of adrenal function, support kidney health, promote rejuvenation of blood, facilitate detoxification, and offer a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals. Nettles possess the remarkable ability to strengthen and fortify the entire body, thereby helping prevent the emergence of a wide range of vaccination-related side effects.

Please take note: If your dog exhibits urinary incontinence while using Nettle, it signals a need for additional kidney support. In such cases, it is advisable to temporarily discontinue Nettle administration while addressing kidney health.

Recommended Infusion Dosages: Mix into meals twice daily

• Extra-Small Dogs: 1 tsp
• Small Dogs: 2 tsp
• Medium Dogs: 1 1/2 tbsp
• Large Dogs: 2 tbsp
• Extra-Large Dogs: 2 1/2 tbsp

Juniper (Juniperus communis) Tincture

Juniper plays a pivotal role in the regeneration of liver cells and supports kidney detoxification, effectively resetting organ function. If signs of kidney or liver weakness, as outlined in the lists above, become apparent following vaccination, an eight-week course of Juniper administration is recommended. Juniper aids in flushing pharmaceutical drugs from your dog’s system; however, its use alongside pharmaceuticals is not advisable.

Suggested Dosages: Administer away from food twice daily

• Extra-Small Dogs: 5 drops
• Small Dogs: 8 drops
• Medium Dogs: 11 drops
• Large Dogs: 16 drops
• Extra-Large Dogs: 18 drops

Important Note: Remember that more does not equate to better results. Avoid administering large doses of Juniper or using it for more than eight consecutive weeks. Excessive use of Juniper can lead to overstimulation and potential kidney damage. Therefore, pets with kidney disease should steer clear of Juniper.

Burdock Root (Arctium lappa) Tincture

For dogs experiencing difficulty with eating following the lepto vaccine, Burdock root comes to the rescue by aiding digestion and stimulating appetite. When used in conjunction with Astragalus, Burdock provides robust immune system support. This herb also plays a crucial role in assisting the liver and kidneys with detoxification, effectively purifying the blood and addressing systemic imbalances that may result from the lepto vaccine. These imbalances can manifest as skin issues, including dry and scaly patches, dandruff, and rheumatism.

Suggested Dosages: Administer away from food twice daily

• Extra-Small Dogs: 2 drops
• Small Dogs: 3 drops
• Medium Dogs: 6 drops
• Large Dogs: 8 drops
• Extra-Large Dogs: 10 drops

Note: It is advisable not to administer Burdock tincture for periods exceeding eight weeks at a stretch.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) Root Tincture

Astragalus, renowned for its immunomodulatory properties, effectively balances an overactive or underactive immune system. This remarkable herb enhances phagocytosis, the process by which cells eliminate toxins, particularly within the liver, spleen, and lung systems. As a result, it plays a crucial role in averting issues like spleen enlargement, respiratory problems, cirrhosis, and even cancer that may arise as consequences of vaccination.

Astragalus has proven beneficial when used in conjunction with conventional drug therapies to reduce toxicity and alleviate side effects. It can effectively address low white blood cell counts and aid in the restoration of depleted red blood cell formation within the bone marrow—a common occurrence in dogs following the lepto vaccine. Furthermore, Astragalus serves as a protective shield for the liver, helping to prevent or reduce elevated liver enzymes, a frequent occurrence post-lepto vaccination.

Suggested Dosages: Administer away from food twice daily

• Extra-Small Dogs: 5 drops
• Small Dogs: 8 drops
• Medium Dogs: 11 drops
• Large Dogs: 16 drops
• Extra-Large Dogs: 18 drops

Maritime Pine (Pinus pinaster) Tincture

Rich in pycnogenol, a potent antioxidant, Maritime Pine assumes a critical role in tumor prevention, effectively reducing oxidative stress and mitigating inflammation.

Suggested Tincture Dosage: 1/2 ml per 20 pounds, administered twice daily away from food

Decaffeinated Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) Powder

Decaffeinated green tea capsules boast high levels of EGCG polyphenols, potent antioxidants that play a pivotal role in cancer prevention. This versatile herb bolsters the immune system, alleviates stagnation by aiding in the elimination of toxic residues, and fosters liver health.

Note: Always opt for decaffeinated green tea as caffeine should not be administered to pets.

Suggested Dosages: Mix into meals twice daily

• Extra-Small Dogs: 100 mg
• Small Dogs: 200 mg
• Medium Dogs: 300 mg
• Large Dogs: 350 mg
• Extra-Large Dogs: 400 mg

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) Gemmotherapy 1:200 Dilution

Given the concerning levels of aluminum present in the lepto vaccine, Bilberry gemmotherapy serves as a valuable ally in aluminum removal from the body. Bilberries contain anthocyanins, compounds known for their ability to chelate heavy metals and exert anti-inflammatory effects. They may even preempt heavy metal toxicity when administered promptly.

Suggested Dosage: Administer 4 drops for every 15 pounds of body weight twice daily, away from food.

Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)

If you happen to detect a tumor in your dog following the lepto vaccine, consider turning to Reishi Mushroom for support. Reishi is known for its remarkable ability to bolster the immune system and enhance the activity of natural killer cells. This, in turn, promotes apoptosis, or the natural process of cell death, leading to a reduction in tumor size. Additionally, Reishi aids in the regeneration of kidney and liver cells, offering protection against the risk of organ failure.

Suggested Powder Dosage: Administer 125 mg for every 15 pounds of body weight, twice daily, away from food. Tincture Dosage: Administer 1/2 ml for every 10 pounds of body weight, away from food.

Lepto Homeopathic Nosode

Homeopathic remedies operate on the principle of “like treats like.” A lepto homeopathic nosode harnesses the essence of the lepto toxin, significantly diluting it while retaining its energy vibration. This formulation aids in stimulating the body’s natural defense mechanisms against the toxin.

Julia Henriques, a contributor to Dogs Naturally Magazine, reported on the successful use of homeopathic nosodes by the Cuban government to prevent lepto in its citizens. In 2007, when post-hurricane flooding exposed residents to the risk of leptospirosis, 2.3 million people were safely immunized using homeopathic nosodes at a fraction of the cost of traditional vaccination. This approach proved effective in a “high-risk” area during a “high-risk” natural disaster, offering a cost-effective and non-lethal alternative for prevention.