GBGB wishes to remind stakeholders that, from 1 January 2027, proof of a correctly completed Leptospirosis 4 (L4) vaccination course will be required at the point of registration. GBGB’s minimum vaccination requirements (Rule 60) will be amended to reflect this change.

Ahead of the implementation date, all greyhounds currently vaccinated with L2 as part of their primary vaccination course and annual booster programme should begin transitioning to L4 vaccination.

To avoid delays when registering greyhounds, trainers purchasing greyhounds from the Republic of Ireland should ensure that their rabies, core (DHP/DHPPi) and L4 vaccination courses have both been fully completed and are up to date before travel. Trainers should obtain evidence, signed by the attending vet, of the greyhound’s full vaccination history.

Greyhounds purchased from Northern Ireland do not require a Pet Passport but do require proof of up-to-date core vaccinations and up-to-date leptospirosis vaccination (including proof of a completed initial leptospirosis vaccination course if an annual leptospirosis booster has been evidenced).

Transitioning racing greyhounds to L4 vaccination

To achieve effective L4 immunity, a primary vaccination course requires two L4 doses administered within the interval specified by the specific vaccine manufacturer (typically three to four weeks apart), followed by an annual L4 booster vaccination.

As active GBGB registered racing greyhounds will already have L2 protection as a minimum, their first L4 dose can be administered when their annual leptospirosis booster is due. The second L4 dose should then be given within the interval recommended by the attending veterinary surgeon and in accordance with the vaccine manufacturer’s guidelines.

For further information regarding registration requirements, contact the GBGB Registry Department on 020 7822 0900 (option 4) or email registry@gbgb.org.uk.