From the Research
Lyme disease vaccines for dogs are highly effective in preventing canine Lyme disease, with efficacy rates typically ranging from 85-95%. The most commonly used canine Lyme vaccines include Nobivac Lyme, VANGUARD crLyme, and Recombitek Lyme, which are administered as an initial two-dose series given 2-4 weeks apart, followed by annual boosters 1. These vaccines work by targeting the outer surface proteins (Osp) of Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium that causes Lyme disease, particularly OspA which prevents the bacterium from migrating from the tick's gut to its salivary glands during feeding.
Key Points to Consider
- Vaccination is especially recommended for dogs living in or traveling to endemic areas such as the Northeast, upper Midwest, and Pacific Northwest of the United States.
- The vaccine is most effective when administered before exposure to infected ticks, ideally before tick season begins in spring.
- While the vaccine significantly reduces the risk of infection, no vaccine provides 100% protection, making additional preventive measures important for complete protection.
- New Lyme vaccines, using OspA antigens from multiple species of American and European Borrelia, are in advanced clinical development, and one such vaccine is in phase 3 trials 1.
Comprehensive Tick Prevention Strategy
- Regular tick checks
- Prompt tick removal
- Use of tick preventatives like topical treatments, collars, or oral medications
- Vaccination should be part of this comprehensive strategy to ensure optimal protection against Lyme disease. Some studies have shown the effectiveness of Lyme vaccine in real-world settings, with ≥3 doses being 71% effective against Lyme disease 2. However, the most recent and highest quality study should be prioritized when making recommendations 1.