Which vaccines are considered optional for active duty MWDs?

• A. Lyme disease and Leptospirosis vaccines
• B. Rabies vaccine
• C. Core vaccines
• D. No vaccines are ever required

Answer: (A)

Vaccines are divided into core and non-core (optional) based on risk and impact. Core vaccines protect against diseases that are widespread and highly dangerous, and they’re typically required. Non-core vaccines are optional and chosen based on the dog’s exposure risk in its duty environment.

For active duty MWDs, the core vaccines include those that shield against diseases like distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, and rabies. Lyme disease and Leptospirosis vaccines are non-core options, offered based on specific risk factors such as geography and exposure to tick-infested areas or contaminated water. That’s why this pair is considered optional: the decision to vaccinate depends on the mission and environment.

So, Lyme disease and Leptospirosis vaccines are the optional ones. Rabies and the core vaccines are generally required, and the idea that no vaccines are ever required isn’t accurate given these mandatory protections.