| Opinions differ widely on vaccination protocols. Most vet's promote a program of 4 puppy shots and yearly re-vaccination after that. We prefer to not vaccinate our puppies before 6 months of age. A dogs system is fully mature by this time and one shot provides lifetime immunity. We have read and researched this issue extensively. Giving vaccines too early actually impairs and suppreses their immune system!! Annual re-vaccinations provide NO benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions. The percentage of animals vaccinated only as puppies protected from clinical disease after challlenge with canine distemper,canine parvovirus,adenovirus in a study by Dr. Ronald D. Schultz was Greater than 95%. Adverse reactions to annual re-vaccination range from itching of the skin to epilepsy and seizures. All 27 veterinary schools in North America are in the process of changing their vaccine protocols. It is the responsibility of each of us to be educated and make an informed decision on behalf of our beloved companions. Minimum Duration of Immunity for vaccines Canine Rabies-3years Canine Parainfluenza-3years Canine Distemper- (Onderstepoort strain) 5 years Canine Distemper-(Rockborn strain) 7years Canine adenovirus-(kennel cough) 7years Canine parvovirus-7years |
| Vaccinations: All 27 veterinary schools in North America were in the process of considering a change in their protocols for vaccinating dogs and cats. According to information posted by Lyn Richards on the Doglogic website, these are the concepts underlying the new guidelines that are purportedly 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 mother's 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." |
| For further information on vaccines and the harm they do visit Shirley's Well-Ness Cafe |
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