SAN DIEGO -- There are new concerns about vaccines for pets. When dogs die after receiving their annual shots, pet owners want answers, 10News reported.

Denise Rolen says she adopted a new puppy to help her get over the grief of losing Ginger, her 8-year-old golden retriever that died unexpectedly.

"I beat myself up (over the) thought I played a role in her death when I thought I was protecting her," Rolen said.

Rolen feels guilty because Ginger's immune system failed after she received her annual vaccines.

Rolen's concern strikes at the heart of the hottest new controversy in veterinary medicine: whether or not to vaccinate your dog.

"Now that I've done all this research, I'm sure the vaccinations caused this auto immune disorder," Rolen said.

Kim Landers is part of a dog rescue group. She says she also has concerns about vaccines.

Landers and Rolen want other dog owners to know about this potential danger, and a new test that could protect their pets.

The titer test measures the level of immunity in a dog's system, 10News reported.

Dr. Michael Herrod says the titer test is a simple, proven technique to help dog owners decide if their pets need boosters for parvo and distemper.

"If the dog did respond with an adequate level of antibodies, vaccines would be of no benefit," Herrod said.

Herrod also says research shows in rare cases unneeded vaccines could actually harm pets.

The test may not be the answer for every pet owner, but important to consider before submitting the family dog to those routine vaccinations.