Vaccination Protocol by W. Jean Dodds, DVM

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Revised 4/00
W. Jean Dodds, DVM HOMEOPET
938 Stanford Street, Santa Monica, CA  90403
 310-828-4804; Fax 310-828-8251

NOTE: This schedule is the one I recommend and should NOT be interpreted to mean that other protocols recommended by a veterinarian would be less satisfactory. It's a matter of professional judgment and choice.

For breeds or families of dogs susceptible to or effected with immune dysfunction, immune-mediated disease, immune-reactions associated with vaccinations, or autoimmune endocrine disease (e.g., thyroiditis, Addison's or Cushing's disease, diabetes, etc.), the following protocol is recommended:

Age of Pups                             Vaccine Type

9 Weeks                                                                   MLV* Distemper/Parvovirus only (e.g. Intervet

 Progard Puppy)

12 Weeks                                                                 MLV* Distemper/Parvovirus only (e.g. Intervet

 Progard Puppy)

16-20 Weeks                                                           MLV* Distemper/Parvovirus only (e.g. Intervet

 Progard Puppy)
        Total of 3 doses ONLY

24 weeks or older, if allowable by law                       Killed Rabies Vaccine

1 year                                                                       MLV* Distemper/Parvovirus only booster

1 year                                                                        (give 3-4 weeks apart from Dist/Parvo
                                                                                 Killed 3 year rabies vaccine booster)


*MLV=modified-live virus

 

After 1 year, annually measure serum antibody titers against specific canine infectious agents such as distemper and parvovirus. This is especially recommended for animals previously experiencing adverse vaccine reactions or breeds at higher risk for such reactions (e.g., Weimaraner, Akita, American Eskimo, Great Dane). Another alternative to booster vaccinations is homeopathic nosodes. This option is considered an unconventional treatment that has not been scientifically proven to be efficacious. One controlled parvovirus nosode study did not adequately protect puppies under challenged conditions. However, data from Europe and clinical experience in North America support its use. If veterinarians choose to use homeopathic nosodes, their clients should be provided with an appropriate disclaimer and written informed consent should be obtained.

I use only killed 3 year rabies vaccine for adults and give it separated from other vaccines by 3-4 weeks. In some states, they may be able to give titer test result in lieu of booster.

I do NOT use Bordetella, corona virus, leptospirosis or Lyme vaccines unless these diseases are endemic in the local area or specific kennel. Furthermore, the currently licensed leptospira bacterins do not contain the serovars causing the majority of clinical leptospirosis today.

I do not recommend vaccinating bitches during estrus, pregnancy or lactation.

12/28/01