Vaccinations are a cornerstone of responsible dog parenting, offering critical protection against life-threatening diseases like parvo and distemper. But as with all things in life, there’s a balance to be struck. Over-vaccination and adverse reactions can pose risks, leaving dog parents wondering how best to protect their pups without compromising their health. Today, I want to share my perspective on vaccinations and the approach I take with the dogs in my care.
The Importance of Vaccinations
Let’s start with the good—the lifesaving power of vaccinations. For puppies, vaccinations are essential to building immunity to diseases that could otherwise be fatal. Parvo and distemper, for instance, are devastating illnesses that can spread quickly among unvaccinated pups. Rabies, of course, is not only a deadly disease but also a public health concern, which is why it’s legally required in most places.
Puppies are particularly vulnerable because their immune systems are still developing. That’s why vaccinating during their early months is so critical. But timing matters—and this is where my personal protocol comes in.
My Vaccination Protocol
For the dogs in my care, I’ve developed a plan that balances protection with a focus on their long-term health:
-
Three Rounds of Puppy Shots: Puppies receive three rounds of core vaccines, focusing on parvo and distemper. This is due to the fact that while puppies are nursing their immunity is too high for the vaccine to take, which is why I wait till the puppy is a bit older. However, there are circumstances where the puppy has been exposed already and is likely in more danger if you wait to vaccinate (usually hard rescue cases).
-
Delay Vaccinations Until 16 Weeks (If Possible): When circumstances permit, I delay vaccinations until puppies are 16 weeks old. This strategy reduces exposure to diseases and allows their immune systems to develop more fully before introducing vaccines.
-
Rabies at 6 Months: I follow the recommendation and get the rabies vaccine at 6 months of age, followed by a one-year booster always. Rabies is required (titer test not accepted) in some states, so if necessary, you can follow the homeopathic protocol for detoxing after a rabies vaccine if your dog is prone to a reaction or has any other underlying health issues or is a senior.
-
Minimal Vaccines: Beyond parvo/distemper and rabies, I do not recommend additional vaccinations unless absolutely necessary. See below.
Vaccines I Don’t Recommend
Take bordetella, for example. While this vaccine targets kennel cough, it only protects against one strain of the disease. Since kennel cough is generally treatable and rarely life-threatening, I don’t consider this vaccine essential. Similarly, I recommend the lepto vaccine only if your dog frequents areas with questionable water sources, such as ponds or lakes where leptospirosis may be present.
The Risks: Reactions and Over-Vaccination
Here comes the bad and the ugly. While vaccines save lives, they can also have side effects. Mild reactions like lethargy or localized swelling are fairly common, but in some cases, dogs experience more severe reactions, including:
-
Allergic responses
-
Autoimmune disorders
-
Long-term immune system suppression
Over-vaccination, in particular, can lead to immune system overload, potentially triggering chronic health issues that can be deadly. This is why I strongly advocate for an individualized vaccination plan tailored to each dog’s needs.
Titers: A Smarter Way to Monitor Immunity
Enter titers—a simple blood test that measures your dog’s immunity to specific diseases. Rather than administering annual boosters, a titer test can determine whether your dog still has adequate protection from their initial vaccinations. If the test shows sufficient immunity, there’s no need for a booster. This approach reduces unnecessary vaccines and minimizes the risk of adverse reactions.
I recommend seeking out a holistic veterinarian who offers titer testing. While not all boarding and grooming facilities accept titers in place of vaccines, more are becoming open to this option as awareness grows. Do your research and prioritize establishments that respect your dog’s unique health needs.
Final Thoughts
Vaccinations are undeniably important, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. As dog parents, it’s our responsibility to strike a balance between protection and overdoing it. By delaying vaccinations when possible, focusing on core vaccines, considering titers, and consulting a holistic vet, we can safeguard our pups’ health without compromising their immune systems.
Remember, every dog is different. Always discuss your concerns and options with your veterinarian to create a plan that works best for your furry friend. Together, we can keep our pups happy, healthy, and thriving for years to come.
Share this article with a fellow dog lover to help spread the knowledge!
To pawfect health! Auntie M