The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Executive Board issued Principles of Vaccination in April 2001. “Unnecessary stimulation of the immune system [by revaccinating] does not result in enhanced disease resistance, and may increase the risk of adverse post-vaccination events.” (See link 1)

What does this mean? Vaccinating annually, and giving more than two vaccines in one shot, may create a health risk for your dog or cat.

There is much controversy in the veterinary community regarding which vaccines should be given, when, and in what manner. If you're concerned about the potential long-term impact and possible health issues that can result from over-vaccination, be sure to read the DVM news links (2 and 3) below.

Another excellent resource is the web site of Bob Rogers, DVM, Critter Fixer Pet Hospital (link 4). He posts extensive information about various diseases for which dogs and cats are vaccinated; which vaccines are necessary; which ones can be harmful, and why; recommended administration schedules; and much more. Dr. Rogers has been quoted in the Wall Street Journal regarding the vaccine controversy. He also wrote a letter to the Texas Attorney General in April 2002, which began: "I assert that the present practice of marketing of vaccinations for companion animals constitutes fraud by misrepresentation, fraud by silence, theft by deception, and undue influence by all Veterinarians engaged in companion animal practice in this state." Although Dr. Rogers is not against vaccinating, he is against using vaccines that are unnecessary or have no real efficacy. The Attorney General responded but has yet to take any real action; Dr. Rogers continues to pursue the matter. (See his web site, link 4, for updated posts.)

Other research resources include Vaccinations for Pets, an article by Will Falconer, DVM (link 5), and Canine Vaccinology, Part I, by Susan E. Anderson, DVM (link 6)

Titer Tests

Titer tests are blood tests that measure antibody levels against particular viruses. It takes several days after initial vaccinations for the body to begin producing antibodies to the virus, so protection is not immediate. Whether to revaccinate annually should be based on titer results, your own research, and veterinary advice. Further vaccinations (as long as the titers are positive for antibodies) do not increase the animal’s protection, and can potentially cause vaccine-induced medical problems.

My Weimaraner, Max, was last vaccinated in November 1997. He was titered for Parvo and Distemper in April 2002, and showed ongoing protection against these diseases. Max is no longer vaccinated because he suffered severe, long-term medical problems as a result of the assault on his immune system from 6- and 7-way vaccines at a young age. These problems included the onset of aggressive behavior, seizures, skin problems, ear infections, corneal ulcers, food intolerances, anaphylactic drug and vaccine reactions, and others. Max was diagnosed with rabies miasm (exhibiting the signs of the disease without actually having it ~ see link 7), and treated homeopathically with great success, but it was a long road back to health. He was switched to a raw food diet several years ago, and I support his immune system with various natural supplements.

Max’s Veterinarian wrote a letter detailing Max’s reactions to vaccines, antibiotics and injectible steroids, and warns veterinary personnel that extreme caution must be exercised in these areas where Max is concerned. Every clinic and pet sitter who works with Max receives a copy. If your pet has reactions to vaccines and/or medications, ask your Veterinarian for such a letter. Max is no longer vaccinated for anything, including rabies. (Rabies vaccination is governed by law in many states.)

The decision about whether to vaccinate, how and when, should be based upon your own research and upon your Veterinarian’s feedback to your questions about the risks of over-vaccinating and improper timing. Consider consulting with a holistic or homeopathic Veterinarian for natural remedies which can minimize or prevent vaccine reactions (link 8).

For kittens and puppies, ask your Veterinarian and/or breeder for the appropriate vaccination schedule. As an example, Weimaraner puppies can experience severe vaccine reactions. Researchers such as Dr. Jean Dodds and Dr. John Angles have recommended a specific vaccine protocol for Weimaraners, and this is the case for certain other breeds as well (link 9).

Vaccinating Cats

For specifics on vaccinating cats, see Dr. Don Hamilton’s article (link 10), which also appears in his book, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs: Small Doses for Small Animals. If you don’t have access to a holistic Veterinarian, Dr. Hamilton resides in New Mexico and is available for long-distance phone consultations (505-666-2091). See the AVMA’s website (link 11) regarding its Vaccine-Associated Feline Sarcoma Task Force, which researches the high occurrence rate of soft tissue sarcomas in cats at vaccine injection sites.

Summary

Vaccinate cautiously. Support your pet’s immune system with a premium quality kibble (for dogs, Wellness Super5, MMillennia, and others rated by Whole Dog Journal; for cats, Wellness Dry Cat Food, Nutro Natural Choice for Complete Care, and others ~ see links 12 and 13). Even better: transition to a raw food diet, and use holistic care options. Doing so will improve the quality and length of your animal companion’s life, and can drastically reduce your Veterinarian bills.