Herbs for Dogs
vaccinations for dogs
herb articles for pet owners
The
following is taken from the April/May Newsletter of the Senior Dogs Project:
" Vaccinations:
All Veterinary Schools in North America Changing Vaccination Protocols"
Recent editions of the Senior Dogs Project's
newsletter have reported on the ever-broadening trend of eliminating
vaccinations for adult dogs, except for rabies, where required by state law.
We have
now had a report that all 27 veterinary schools in North America are in the
process of changing their protocols for vaccinating dogs and cats.
Here, in a nutshell, are the new guidelines under
consideration: "Dogs' and cats' immune systems mature fully at 6 months.
If a modified live virus (MLV) vaccine is given after 6 months of age, it
produces immunity, which is good for the life of the pet (i.e. canine
distemper, parvo, feline distemper). If another MLV vaccine is given a
year later, the antibodies from the first vaccine neutralize the antigens of
the second vaccine and there is little or no effect. The titer is not 'boosted'
nor are more memory cells induced.
"Not only are annual boosters for parvo and
distemper unnecessary, they subject the pet to potential risks of allergic
reactions and immune-mediated hemolytic anemia. There is no scientific
documentation to back up label claims for annual administration of MLV
vaccines. Puppies receive antibodies through their mothers milk. This natural
protection can last 8-14 weeks.
Puppies and kittens should NOT be vaccinated at
LESS than 8 weeks. Maternal immunity will neutralize the vaccine
and little protection (0-38%) will be produced.
"Vaccination at 6 weeks will, however, delay
the timing of the first highly effective
vaccine. Vaccinations given 2 weeks apart suppress rather than
stimulate the immune system. A series of vaccinations is given
starting at 8 weeks and given 3-4 weeks apart up to 16 weeks of age.
Another vaccination given sometime after 6 months of age (usually at 1 year 4
months) will provide lifetime immunity."