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Dog And Cat Vaccines: The Truth - Part 2

27 18:14:31
In a previous article, I discussed the problems with pet vaccines today and the confusion that many dog and cat owners face. Should you vaccinate your pet, and if so, how often and for what diseases?

If you listen to the advice of most conventional veterinarians, the answer would be "vaccinate for (nearly) all diseases, and give booster shots annually". However, I do not advocate this approach.

Most veterinary schools are now advising alternate vaccine protocols, in light of the new evidence. They are suggesting fewer vaccines, less often. Research is now showing that vaccine immunity is lasting much longer than previously believed. In fact, a vaccine given at 1 year of age (or less) may provide a lifelong immunity. Draw the analogy to people and the Tetanus vaccine: it needs to be boosted once every 10 years or longer, and this may be similar with our pets.

Vaccinations do help prevent serious illnesses, but they should be used with caution. Before vaccinating your dog or cat, consider the risk. If your cat is indoor-only and will never be exposed to non-vaccinated animals, the risk of infection is low. Conversely, if your dog is often in boarding kennels or goes to a busy dog day care, then he may be exposed to many diseases.

The decision about vaccinations is very individual and should be guided by your own research on the subject before you go to the veterinarian. Speak with veterinarians and others in the pet health field in your area, along with other pet owners, to find out what diseases are common and what your pet may be exposed to.

If you would like to know more, visit one of my sites - see the resource box below for a link to VeterinarySecretsRevealed or TheOnlineVet - and send me an email with the request. I'll send you my Vaccine Report, with my recommendations. In the meantime, all the best wishes to you and your furry children!