So why should you put your dog on a minimal vaccine protocol? Vaccines are full of toxic chemicals that are very hard on a dog's body, such as aluminum, mercury, formaldehyde, and oils. These additives, among the others found in the vaccine liquid that holds the disease, have no place being in your pet's body. Studies have shown that there is likely a connection between these harsh chemicals and cancer in both pets and humans. Research also shows that over vaccination can lead to other diseases and disorders.
In reality, much like us, dogs do not need to be re-vaccinated for diseases as often as veterinarians recommend. Immunity duration for vaccines such as parvovirus and distemper typically last approximately 7 years, so instead of vaccinating every year it is best to run an antibody titer test for those diseases. A titer test will check the level of immunity your dog has three years after getting the vaccine. By doing titers instead of vaccinating, you prevent your dog from being bombarded by the toxic chemicals additives found in pet vaccines. By avoiding unnecessary vaccination you also prevent your dog's immune system from going through extreme stress.
After the initial set of puppy shots, the dog likely will not need anymore vaccinations for the rest of their life. Immunity duration is long, just like with our own human vaccines. You can do titer tests every year to check levels of immunity in the blood before you decide to re-vaccinate.
* It is important to note that vaccinating your dog against parvovirus, distemper and rabies is very important because these disease are deadly and often result in death. However, the vaccine is NOT required yearly for the majority of dogs. A titer test is a blood test that tests the dogs level of immunity to a certain disease. A yearly titer test is a great, healthy alternative to yearly vaccination.
It is also important to discuss what diseases are prevalent in your area with your veterinarian, as some dogs might require different vaccines due to location and risk of exposure.
MINIMAL VACCINE PROTOCOL FOR DOGS
9 WEEK OF AGE:
Parvovirus + Distemper
14 WEEKS OF AGE:
Parvovirus + Distemper
17 WEEKS OF AGE:
Parvovirus + Distemper
20 WEEKS OF AGE:
Rabies
AT 1 YEAR OF AGE:
Parvovirus + Distemper FINAL (Titers from now on, every 3 years.)
Four weeks after the parvo + distemper one year booster you should give your dog the three year rabies vaccine. The rabies vaccine is required by law so it must be given every three years.
Click here to visit Dr. Jean Dodd's website for details on vaccinations for dogs.
K9 Instinct offers diet and nutritional consultations, visit my Diet and Nutrition page or contact me for more information!
Angel Leandres
K9 Instinct
www.k9instinct.com