Vaccinations
A Note About Vaccinations...
I would like to make you aware that all 27 veterinary schools in North America are in the process of changing their protocols for vaccinating dogs and cats. Some of this information will present an ethical & economic challenge to Vets, and there will be skeptics. Some organizations have come up with a political compromise suggesting vaccinations every 3 years to appease those who fear loss of income vs. those concerned about potential side effects. Politics, traditions, or the doctors economic well-being should not be a factor in a medical decision.
NEW PRINCIPLES OF IMMUNOLOGY:
Dogs 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).
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 haemolytic 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 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 l year 4 mo) will provide LIFETIME IMMUNITY.
Vaccinations required to leave your dog at our kennel (if not up-to-date, to be given at least 2 weeks in advance in order to stay with us) are:
1. DA2LP-P vaccine- this contains a combination of Distemper, Adenovirus- type 2 that causes Infectious Canine Hepatitis (liver disease), Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.
2. Rabies vaccine - For Wheatland area - every three years outside of city limits. Our kennel is outside of city limits.
3. Coronavirus - this is given to dogs at risk of developing coronavirus and is used when owners want all possible protection against viral diarrhea. This vaccine is often administered with the DHLP-P vaccine and is indicated by DHLPPC where the "C" stands for coronavirus.
5. Bordetella (Canine Cough) Vaccine - One of the public relations problems for boarding kennels today is caused by a much misunderstood disease in dogs called "canine cough," tracheobronchitis, or often improperly referred to as "kennel cough." As a dog owner you should be aware of some of the facts about this disease.
Infectious tracheobronchitis is a highly contagious, upper-respiratory disease which is spread by an air-borne virus. The incubation period of the disease is roughly 3 to 7 days. The main symptom is a gagging cough, sometimes accompanied by sneezing and nasal discharge, which can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Although this coughing is very annoying, it does not usually develop into anything more serious. However, just as with a common cold, it can lower the dog's resistance to other diseases making him susceptible to secondary infections, and so he must be observed closely to avoid complications.
This vaccine is either given intranasally (drops into the nose) or as an injection under the skin. The intranasal form has been found to provide better immunity. The vaccine helps protect against infectious tracheobronchitis, or "canine cough". The vaccine must be administered 7 to 10 days prior to be admitted to an area possibly containing the virus. If your veterinarian doesn't give this vaccine, please request it!
4. Heartworm - At this time, southeastern Wyoming does not have a problem with heartworm and the kennel does not require your dog to be on a heartworm preventative medication. However, If you plan to take your dog out-of-state, it is recommended you start your dog on heartworm medication at least a month prior to your trip. Be sure to have your dog tested BEFORE giving any heartworm medication! This kennel does not recommend giving the 6 or 12 month shot in case your dog has an adverse reaction to the shot. The monthly pills are the best way to go.
