There are other non-core vaccines available to protect individual dogs deemed to be at risk for certain illnesses.
Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs
Bordetellosis
A vaccine for Bordetella bronchiseptica which is a contributing cause to kennel cough syndrome is available. These bacteria are a leading cause of kennel cough, causing respiratory symptoms such as coughing, nasal discharge, and fever. Serious infections can lead to pneumonia. Dogs in close contact with other dogs such as in shelters, boarding facilities, dog shows, training classes, and other high risk environments will benefit from vaccination for this disease.
Leptospirosis
Seven variants of this bacterium cause leptospirosis in dogs in North America, with some variants causing more severe disease than others. For three variants of this bacterium there is no vaccine commercially available, but vaccines do protect against the most commonly diagnosed sources of canine disease. Active infection may pose a real risk to the owner, as Leptospira organisms can infect people also. This disease is not present in every geographic area, so it is administered to dogs at risk of exposure only. A number of endemic areas exist in Canada and the U.S. where infections are common. Dogs traveling into these areas may be at risk and should be considered for vaccination.
Lyme disease (Borreliosis)
Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium, Borrelia burgdorferi, and is spread through the bite of infected ticks. While not all ticks carry the organism, ticks feeding on deer and mice are common vectors, especially in the Northeastern United States. Vaccination against Lyme disease may be indicated for dogs traveling to or living in endemic areas.
Giardiasis
This single-celled parasite of the gut was formerly called Giardia lamblia, but now is termed Giardia intestinalis, or Giardia duodenalis. It is still sometimes still termed “beaver fever”, since traditionally the source of infection was rural waterways. Vaccines do not appear to prevent infection, but do reduce cyst shedding, which is important for environmental control.
Coronavirus
Coronavirus infections generally cause mild and self-limiting disease in young dogs, although co-infection with parvovirus is considered to be responsible for more serious digestive system illness. Vomiting and diarrhea are the most common clinical signs, resolving often within a few days. Vaccination may be considered for dogs in high risk environments, such as dog shows, where outbreaks can occur.