Over-Vaccination in Pets | Royal Palm Beach, FL Homeopath Veterinarian (2024)

FAQs

Do holistic vets believe in vaccines? ›

In holistic circles, we believe in the concept that vaccines can cause chronic illness in a much more prevalent way.

When animals are given vaccinations they are too young to receive, it also increases the likelihood of an adverse reaction. Several diseases can develop as a result of over-vaccination. Some pets have experienced neurological conditions, immune deficiencies, and more after being vaccinated too many times.

Treatment of Vaccine Side Effects in Dogs

Usually, treatment is only recommended in severe cases. However, your vet may prescribe a medication to help your pet feel better. In severe, life-threatening reactions, treatment typically consists of medications such as antihistamines, steroids, IV fluids, and oxygen.

Section 828.30, Florida Statutes, “Cruelty to Animals” requires that all dogs, cats, and ferrets 4 months of age or older must be vaccinated by a licensed veterinarian against rabies with a vaccine that is licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for use in those species.

Under the holistic approach, puppies aren't vaccinated until they turn 22 weeks old. They start with a shot for distemper and then, on week 26, receive a parvovirus vaccine. Rabies shots are scheduled for week 30. Some veterinarians also provide second distemper and parvovirus shots on weeks 24 and 28, respectively.

Titer Testing

Rather than scheduling a pet's vaccine boosters at specific intervals, the booster schedules are determined by measuring the levels of antivirus that are still present in a pet's system, using tests known as titer tests. Antibodies typically stay in a pet's body for years.

At what age do you stop vaccinating your dog? Senior dogs do not generally stop requiring vaccinations, but it will depend on your dog's lifestyle and overall health. Once a dog reaches seven years of age, its senior status requires some special considerations to keep them healthy and happy.

Risks of Over-Vaccination

Increases the risk of vaccine-associate malaise. Malaise is a natural result of vaccination; it means the immune system is kicking it into high gear and doing all the things it should do to protect your pet from disease.

"Core" vaccines are recommended for all dogs and cats, unless there's a medical need not to vaccinate. "Non-core" vaccines are recommended for certain pets based on their risk of exposure to the disease, such as through their lifestyle or geographic location.

Affected Breeds

Any individual pet may be susceptible, but smaller dogs tend to experience more adverse vaccine reactions: Dachshund. Pug. Boston Terrier.

How to detox your dog naturally? ›

The first step to helping your dog detox is to avoid exposure to toxic substances, primarily through their diet. This can include choosing a healthier dog food brand. Feeding your dog a healthy, balanced, and nutrient-rich diet will support their liver and kidney functions, which aid detoxification.

1) PAIN in DOGS: The most common vaccine reaction in pets is pain at the injection site. While it's unusual for any pain or lethargy to last more than a day, we can help provide relief from any discomfort with the use of Aspirin (NOT Tylenol!). We recommend using Children's Aspirin* for smaller dogs.

To protect people and pets, rabies vaccinations are required by law for all dogs, cats and ferrets over four months of age. A pet's first rabies vaccine provides protection for one year only. You can't purchase or renew the mandatory dog license tag without proof of your pet's current rabies vaccination.

What is Bordetella? Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium that is associated with respiratory disease in dogs. It is one of the components of the canine infectious respiratory complex, sometimes referred to as kennel cough, upper respiratory infection, or infectious tracheobronchitis.

Effective October 1, 2023, Florida Senate Bill 942 prohibits public housing authorities or local governments from adopting policies that ban dogs based on breed, size, or weight.

Since organic farmers can't routinely use drugs to prevent diseases and parasites, they mostly use animal selection and management practices. Only a few drugs, such as vaccines, are allowed. If approved interventions fail, the animal must still be given all appropriate treatment(s).

Yes, a rabies titer can be performed on your dog or cat, but the use of titers in lieu of rabies vaccination is not straight forward. The titer test is only performed as a requirement for international travel to certain countries.

Are there risks to vaccinating my pet? Like other types of medical treatment, vaccination carries some risk of side effects. These side effects typically are minor, and they're far outweighed by the benefits of protecting your pet, your family, and your community from potentially fatal diseases.