Vaccination Protocol

As stated previously, we follow Dr. Jean Dodd's revised vaccination schedule. This method of innoculation is widely considered to be less impactful on a dog's natural immunities, allowing them to develop a natural level of antibodies. As noted, it is particularily recommended for breeds such as Frenchies which are prone to immune related diseases. If you prefer a printable version of this information, it may be obtained here.

Vaccination Protocol by W. Jean Dodds, DVM
Revised 4/00

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

Total of Three Doses Only. 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 disclamer and written informed consent should be obtained.

I use only killed 3 year rabie 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 pr specific kennel. Futhermore, the currently licensed leptospira bacterins do not contain the serovars causing the majority of clinical leptospirosis today.(Note from CG: this can be taken to mean that commercially available Lepto vaccine is NOT effective against the common strain of Lepto, so is innefective and pointless to administer).

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

General Information on Vaccinations

Leptobactrin - we do not recommend.

Corona Virus Vaccine - we do not recommend. If required by trainer or kennel, give at 18 & 22 weeks.

Bordatella Vaccine - we do not recommend. If required by trainer or kennel, give at 22 weeks.

Rabies Vaccine – not to be given at same time as any other vaccine or during stress or surgery.

General Precautions During Vaccination Period:

Don’t administer drugs, flea preventive, heartworm preventive or wormers. The exception to this is topical flea prevention, which is what we strongly reccomend using.
Don’t give any vaccines to a bitch "in season".
Don’t give any vaccines to a pregnant or lactating bitch.
Don’t incur undue stress.
Don’t introduce air travel.
Don't board outside the known home.

Boosters:
Every 18 months to 3 years until the 6th year of life. Boost first with MLV Distemper/Adeno-2/Parainfluenza.
Wait an additional 2 weeks and give Killed Rabies if indicated.
*MLV Modified Live Virus

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VACCINATION:

Don’t vaccinate under stress; corticosteriods inhibit lymphocyte metabolism and cell growth. Adrenalin releases lymphocytic AMP (cyclic) which is immunosuppressive. Stress decreases the activity of natural killer cells.

Don’t vaccinate within 2 weeks of surgery. Anesthetics are immunosuppressive.

Don’t vaccinate before 6 weeks of age. MLV vaccine can cause encephalitis in pups under 4 wks.

Don’t routinely vaccinate older animals. After 6 yrs of age, titers assay first to see if it is necessary to vaccinate at all. Administer a biannual vaccine at ½ dose each 6 months if necessary.

Don’t administer multiple virus vaccines to dogs and cats in multiple animal households. Virus shedding can create increased virus particles in the environment.

Don’t vaccinate sick animals or those who have been exposed to disease.

Don’t vaccinate during glucocorticoid therapy. Be cautious with butazolidin, estrogens and insecticidal drugs including heartworm preventives.

Don’t vaccinate animals with tumors, heart or kidney disease.

The diagramed schedule is based on Cornell Research of the early 90’s reported by Dr. W. Jean Dodds, currently a holistic veterinarian in Southern California.