Shots and senior dog

Question
Dear dr.

I adopted a rescue senior 11 yr. old west highland terrier 3 yrs ago who is now 14 years old.
The shelter gave her shots before adopting her out and a year later at age 12 I had the vet give her the rabies required by
Law and also the 5 and 1 shot DHPP .  I normally stop giving non mandatory shots to my dogs once they turn 10.
Since I do not know her medically history before her adoption I'm not sure if it is safe to stop the shots.
My vet and I never agree about when to stop giving shots to old dogs.

Thsnk you

Answer
I'm not entirely sure about vaccination where you are. We are in Australia, so no rabies here and therefore vaccination is not required by law. Usually in older pets that are low risk after they have had 3 or more annual vaccination we often extend out their immunisation, but usually canine cough and leptospirosis still need yearly vaccination.

The duration of immunity is different for different diseases and vaccines. For example in humans you need a 'flu shot' every year, but only tetanus vaccines every 10 years (then again if you get exposed).

Your vet would probably know better than me what the risks are in your local area.

Sorry I can't be of more help

Eloise