ABOUT VACCINATIONS - OWNERS, PLEASE READ!

Hi all,

Most of you, if not everyone has asked about vaccines. Although each of you will have a PUPPY DATA SHEET in your notebook of what has been done to your pup, I want to also print something here that you can refer to as well. There is only so much room on the form.

PUPPY SHOTS: Your pup will come to you with two vaccines - Distemper and Parvovirus. I have changed my protocol based on a more holistic approach. Growing puppy immune systems do best when not taxed by vaccines.  Using a less invasive method protects your pet just as well. You need to be proactive as a new pet owner. If you would not agree with numerous vaccines for your baby, why would you want to do this to your young puppy?

Yes, it does mean more vet visits but it could also give your pet a healthier more productive life. I suggest Kennel Cough nosode at 16 weeks, then your pet can then go to puppy class. Prior to that, I would be keeping your pet close to home and socializing with dogs that you know have already been innoculated.

RABIES: Please do not allow your vet to give them the Rabies vaccine at the same time as other shots. The Rabies vaccine can and has caused reactions on a number of dogs. Some of these reactions are severe (even death). This is not to say that it should never be done but if the law allows (in your state) wait until your pup is 6 months. Their immune system is fully mature at six months, and they are better equipped to handle this vaccine. If this is against the law in your area, then please schedule a SEPARATE time to get it done and DO NOT combine it with another vaccine of any type.

BORDETELLA: Known as 'kennel cough'. If you plan on boarding, using a groomer, participating in doggie day care or housing where there are a lot of other dogs - then give this one. Please use the 'intranasal' or 'nosode' type rather than the shot. The duration for the nosode is 4 to 6 months, so will need to be repeated. Mark your calendars.

IF YOU CAN'T WAIT: Follow the guidelines of world re-known Dr. Jean Dodds protocal with regard to vaccines at this link: http://www.doglogic.com/vaccination.htm. She does not recommend that you add Canine Corona Virus because healthy dogs recover from this 'affliction' in three days time if left alone. It is also only a disease of very young puppies. Also, Leptospirosis. This vaccine has caused a number of adverse reactions in dogs. It is a short lived vaccine and is also immune supressive to dogs less than 16 weeks old. Lastly, it sort of acts like the flu - it keeps evolving and you never know if the shot you are using is for the right type of 'flu'. So many times, it doesn't work anyway! Make sure to ask your vet to NOT include these in their last pup series shot. Many vets always include it.

TICKS & LYME DISEASE: Lyme Disease is a tick born disease which causes lameness, kidney failure and heart disease. Ticks can transmit this disease to humans. The very BEST prevention is for early removal of ticks (within 24 hours). So check your dog every day during tick season. Amitraz collars are very effective because they paralyze the tick's mouth preventing transmission of the disease. If you use topicals, always note when you applied it and if your dog or it's skin is showing any reactions to it. These meds are not without problems. I prefer spraying an herbal oil such as Citronella, Eucalyptus, Lemongrass, or the like on my dog's scarf and tying it on them during bug season.

HEARTWORM: I don't use it, but I understand that it is all dependent on where you live and how infectious your area might be. I figure if the 'smelly scarves' I use keep away the bugs, they won't bite my dog in the first place.

I hope you find this helpful.