Here's some great advice that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it informative! –Kim
10 Thoughts on Vaccines
by Dr. Andrew Jones
Here's a what a large pet information website has to say about vaccines:
"One of the most important things you can do for your four-legged friend is to stay up to date with his vaccinations. Vaccinations protect our pets from a number of potentially deadly infectious diseases and ensure they stay healthy for years to come"
Really?
Here is what the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has to say:
"Vaccination is a potent medical procedure with both risks and benefits. While there is evidence that some vaccines provide immunity beyond one year, re-vaccination of patients with sufficient immunity does not necessarily add to their disease protection and may increase the potential risk of post-vaccination adverse events."
Adverse events may be associated with the antigen, adjuvant, carrier, preservative or a combination, thereof.
Possible adverse events include, but are not necessarily limited to:
- failure to immunize
- anaphylaxis
- immuno-suppression
- autoimmune disorders
- transient infections
- long-term infected carrier states
- and local development of tumors
My suggestions
- QUESTION what you read – including me.
- Make your own INFORMED decision.
- ONLY vaccinate for the most common diseases in your area – and give the LEAST number of vaccines as INFREQUENTLY as possible.
- ASK your veterinarian about the incidence of these 'life threatening' infectious diseases.
- NEVER vaccinate a sick or weakened pet.
- DO vaccinate your puppy against Parvovirus and Distemper – but only 2 series of vaccines at 8 and 12 weeks.
- DO vaccinate your kitten against Panleuk, Herpes and Calici – again at 8 and 12 weeks.
- The Rabies question depends upon state regulations and the chance of your pet EVER being exposed to it.
- The question of when to re-vaccinate, and how frequent is changing – I would still re-boost 1 year later, then likely, never again.
- Keep your dog and cat healthy with some of the ALTERNATE options that I frequently discuss.
DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your own Veterinarian. Dr Andrew Jones resigned from the College of Veterinarians of B.C., effective December 1, 2010, meaning he cannot answer specific questions about your pet's medical issues or make specific medical recommendations for your pet.
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Copyright © 2011 Four Paws Online Ltd
Dr. Andrew Jones, DVM has been a practicing Veterinarian for almost 20 years. He is a strong advocate of Natural Pet Health Care, and knows that the most important way to heal our pets and prevent disease is through proper nutrition. He developed Ultimate Canine to give our dogs that extra advantage – something that will provide them with everything they need to develop stronger immune systems to fight disease, heal sore or stiff joints, and help them live longer, happier lives. Dr. Andrew Jones' main focus is on alternative, non-traditional remedies for pets. His interest in alternative pet medicine culminated in the writing of his book, Veterinary Secrets Revealed.Also, see:
