So your dog is now vaccinated or titered for the main vaccines but now your veterinarian is mentioning MORE!  What is needed, what isn't needed? What is necessary for my area, what isn't?  All questions that your veterinarian should be able to answer but you should have a little knowledge before you enter that exam room.

Bordetella - The first thing you should know about this vaccine is that it is NOT pronounced Bordello!  You say this and you will get a snicker or two from your veterinary technician - sorry, we just can't help it!  This vaccine is also called the Kennel Cough vaccine.

So what is it? 

Bordetella is the most common bacteria isolated from dogs with tracheobronchitis. It is transmitted through the air and direct contact.  Its symptoms include dry hacking cough sometimes followed by retching. Many owners describe the cough as having a 'honking sound.' A watery nasal discharge may also be present.  Many times, there is a recent history of boarding or coming in contact with other dogs. In severe cases it can cause pneumonia and even death though this is rarely seen.

So does your dog need this vaccine?  You bet!  Even if your dog never goes out side, never comes in contact with other dogs, never boards anywhere, etc. your dog needs this vaccine.  Why?  If you are in the veterinary office getting your dogs annual vaccines and exam done, you pet is at potential risk.  If you live in a neighborhood where dogs are, your dog is at risk.  It's an easy vaccine, usually intra-nasal (given by a few drops in the nose) and it is given in low doses so get it done!  Unless your dog has major health issues, get this vaccine, it will save you a ton of headaches.

Leptospirosis - A very big word for such a tiny little bacteria that can cause a lot of damage.  Lepto is transmitted through the urine and feces of wild animals such as deer and racoons cattle, pigs, horses, dogs, and rodents.  It effects the liver and kidneys of dogs by causing vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, loss of appetite, fever and depression.  If it is not treated it can cause death.  Sounds like something to be vaccinated against right?  Not convinced yet?  You can get this too.

Is this bacteria everywhere? Pretty much but it does vary by locations.  Here in North Carolina we have at least 4 types of Lepto and the usual vaccine given here is designed to cover those strains.  Check with your veterinarian about what is best in your area.

Lyme - Lyme disease is caused by your dog (or yourself) being bitten by an infected tick - usually a deer tick - that attaches and feeds.  

The usual symptoms are joint inflammation and pain, lethargy, vomiting and depression.  Usually the first limb to experience this pain the the one bitten.

Many antibiotics later, your dog may not feel any repercussions from this disease.  The best way to avoid all of this, vaccinate.  

Now not every area in the United States is at high risk so you may want to speak to your veterinarian about the risk in your area.  Remember that even though you live downtown in a major city, you may visit the countryside or a cabin in the mountains, so think of all the areas that your dog may visit.