Go back.

"It seems you really skirted the issue of the need for annual vaccines, since many vets are now saying vaccines may be needed only every three years and annual vaccines may even be toxic to small pets." – J. Rambo

Regardless of the dog's size, there is a huge controversy around the frequency of vaccines. Studies disagree whether vaccines do induce many of these illnesses, but I believe I have seen immune mediated problems initiated by vaccines in my patients, and any of my patients who have immune mediated diseases get titers done for the rest of their lives. As I said in the article, every owner should discuss their individual risk factors with their vet. Vaccines have saved many more lives than they have ended, but as in all things, there is a balance to be established. Before the introduction of three-year vaccines, I recommended titers to most of my patients. Unfortunately they are much more expensive than the vaccines, so many people choose vaccines despite the risk. I have to say that distemper is more likely to kill a dog than immune problems, so if a client refuses titers, I do feel the need to protect them. The three-year vaccine has helped some with that, but I still do recommend titers to many individuals. (As I said in the article, rabies titers are a little more controversial, because they provide little to no legal protection). I truly don’t intend to skirt the issue, but the truth is that nobody knows with absolute certainty what the truth is. If money is not a concern, I believe that titers are still the way to go after the initial puppy series and possibly a one-year booster. This is what I do for my fifteen-year-old dog. However, to show you all sides of the issue, there are specialists who feel that titers are not truly indicative of protection and should not be trusted.

"…If you deny that there is a financial incentive to pretend annual vaccinations are necessary, you need to get out in the real world. I can’t tell you how disappointed I am in your response to the question asked about annual vaccinations in Cesar’s monthly newsletter.  You are devastatingly wrong. I have lost respect for Cesar and certainly you for these antiquated and profit-driven opinions you profess." – D. Stricker

As far as the financial incentive to vets to continue yearly vaccines: if you feel that your vet’s preventative health protocol is motivated by money, then you should find a vet with whom you feel more confident. My intent in the article was to share my belief that vaccines are only a small part of a lifetime preventative health program. In my practice, vaccines are so inexpensive that there is no financial advantage to me in giving them. We are more interested in care for the whole dog, and there are no cookie cutter answers.

Thank you for encouraging me to delve more into the controversy that is vaccines!

Dr. Weaver

About Dr. Sherry Weaver
Dr. Weaver graduated with honors from the University of Georgia's School of Veterinary Medicine.  She founded a state-of-the-art animal hospital, teaches pet care to children, and donates time and resources to rescue organizations. For her full biography, click here.