We were obviously keen to make sure all our vaccinations were up to date before we left the security of our own GP. Boosters for typhoid and Hep. A were required and we also opted to have the rabies course of injections. The first two of these are given 1 week apart with the third due three weeks later. We figured that travelling with Leroy might increase our chances of getting bitted overseas - not by Leroy obviously, but by any intervention required on our part should an altercation occur with a rabid animal. Yes, we are trying to cover all angles.

I have had both astrazeneca jabs and Ian is due to have his second in about 5 weeks time. We are hoping that this will enable us to skip quarantine in many countries and will let you know.

Leroy also had a quick trip to his usual vet where his general vaccinations were renewed. He needed a booster for Kennel Cough (Canigen KC) and also Canine Distemper virus, Canine Adenovirus and Canine Parvovirus (C3 Triennial Duramune) and will now be protected for the next 3 years. Prior to leaving Australia he had a Rabies shot which is a single vaccination that lasts for three years. This is a necessity as we move from country to country as many regulatory authorities will require a titre test to prove there are sufficient anti-bodies in his system before allowing him entry. He also had a Leptospirosis Australis shot followed three weeks later by a booster. Leptospirosis in dogs is a bacterial infection that spreads through the bloodstream. It is picked up from any body of water that may carry urine from infected wildlife and can be a serious, life-threatening disease. Each country that we enter will have different entry requirements for us and Leroy and will need to be dealt with as the need arises.

We also discussed with the vet what would be the best on-going care for long-term travel in a variety of environments and climates. Aside from having his own first aid kit, Leroy will take a Nexguard Spectra tablet once a month which will protect from fleas, ticks, and a variety of worms including heartworm.