Have you noticed that there is now a seasonal flu shot for dogs? Does your pooch really need it? Think about how the flu is spread; through contact in crowded places where a sick individual comes into contact with others. This is the problem with people because we spend too much time in crowds. That is not the case with your pet, unless you keep him in a kennel. And if your dog spends a lot of time in a kennel, maybe you should rethink having a pet. Dogs only go where we allow them to go, so you can keep their exposure to a minimum, and that is why the typical pet is not at risk for seasonal flu.Keep you dog in good health with a natural diet, preferably raw. This will keep their immune systems in top form.
Using prevention techniques is much better then flu vaccines and there are no side effects.For the other
vaccines,
some are good and some should be selected based upon your pet and the potential exposure to various environmental conditions that may put them at risk. If your companion is primarily an at home pet, the risk of getting any of the maladies is relatively small, but if you take your pet on hikes, or mountain biking in the woods, the potential exposure will increase. Also consider that often the initial puppy inoculation cycle may last a long time and not need additional booster shots. Some data suggests that the core vaccinations, except rabies, probably last 7 years.
There is ample evidence that vaccines and naturally occurring exposure will stimulate the body’s immune system to form antibodies and also create a memory if the same virus is encountered again. Memory cells may persist for 20 years and are not increased by annual inoculations. There is a simple test that can determine if your pet has sufficient immunological protection from previous (puppy) shots. Ask your vet to do a Vaccine Titer Test This is a measure of how much antibody to a certain antigen is circulating in the blood at the moment of the test. It is reliable and can determine if a vaccine is warranted. Some vets can give you results in 15 minutes with TiterChekTM test kit, and the tests are no more expensive then the vaccines they will replace. This can be done at your annual checkup, and will help you from over-vaccination, which of course is much better for you pet, and he will thank you with additional years of enjoyment.Although there are dozens of vaccines it is not necessary to test for all. Good immunity for parvovirus and canine distemper virus are the 2 major tests that you should do. But, again consult with your vet to explain your life style and get recommendations, so you can make the best decision for your furry friend.
Many issues that could arise such as with corona virus is more determined by the condition of the canine gut (hence good nutrition) then what is in the blood. Lyme’s is another test that only needs to be run if you live in high risk areas. Please check the chart in Part 1 to determine your pet’s potential risk factors for each of the vaccines presented. Remember in most states rabies vaccines are required by law. There are 1 yr and 3 yr vaccines. They are the same dosage and product, so please ask for the 3 yr if you choose to vaccinate against rabies. You also might consider finding a holistic veterinarian that can provide you with a homeopathic rabies vaccine detox called Lyssin. This can also be obtained online for self administering, but be sure to follow the guidelines exactly. You can also request a Titers for rabies, and perhaps avoid the shot altogether.Many States and Counties offer free rabies shots. Check with your local government office to see if they have this program.
But be careful of over vaccinating, and at some point have a Titers test run rather then take the free vaccine.Do not vaccinate your dog again if he has had a life threatening vaccine reaction.As a society we have been over vaccinating ourselves and especially our pets. At least with humans we stop after puberty, but not so with our faithful companions. It is time to take matters into our own hands and do the necessary research to determine if these vaccines are even necessary. Which ever decision you choose, you will bear the fruits or the consequences, which have a direct bearing on your pets health and life.
