Here's my vaccination protocol. I do not give Lepto or Corna. I do not use titers because as of yet I can find no challenge studies to scientifically support the numbers they are using as "immune." Yes, I agree that the DOI is probably longer; however, until the challenge studies are done and the vaccine labels are changed, I will not risk my dogs being considered "legally unvaccinated."
8 weeks - DA2PP
12 weeks - DA2PP (Bordetella done at 11 weeks if going to new home)
16 weeks - DA2PP
20 weeks - Rabies
1 year - DA2PP and Rabies
2 year - 3 year DA2PP and 3 year Rabies continued for the life of the dog
Breeding bitches are boostered 4 months prior to season to be bred if they are due that year.
This was implemented in 2003 when the new protocols came out by the AVMA Vaccine Task Force study was complete. I modified the age of Rabies due to the breed and the fact that I seperate vaccines whenever possible. I don't know why all vets aren't on board with the recommendations of their own governing body, but that's a question to ask your vet.
Yes, I do think that there are some issues with overvaccinating; however, I also believe that advances in veterinary medicine have afforded us the opportunity to diagnose illnesses that our pets have had for years anyway. I think we are now able to diagnose what they are and all of a sudden it's caused by vaccines, when in reality, dogs have had allergies, epiliepsy, diabetes, heart disease, etc., for as long as humans have had them as pets. You get the general idea of my thoughts. I'm sure I'm not explaining it right. Hard to put into writing without writing a book. I also feel, like with children who's parents chose not to immunize, those of us who do vaccinate are helping to keep unvaccinated pets safer by stopping the wide spread epidemics of these diseases. They are still out there. Shelters PTS entire shelters full of dogs because 1, yes, that's right, 1, comes in with Distemper. Just had one diagnosed with it this week at one of the local foster homes so that home is now quarantined with those pets for 6 months. That's how long they are carriers. It's out there, folks, and do you know the vaccination status of every dog you and your pet come in contact with...and the vaccination status of the dogs those dogs come in contact with? At the pet store? The dog park? On the street passing your house?
Boarding kennels recognize the vaccination status of your pet per your vet. You do not have to vaccinate yearly (except Bordetella) in order to board. If your vet papers show you got a 3 year vaccine, then it's good for 3 years with the kennel.
It should also be good for that long with your local animal services for licensing. Each is different, though, so check. Florida finally got it changed so that across the state the 3 year Rabies is recognized and the individual counties can't require it annually even when a 3 year was given.
I think it's important for every owner to research and make informed decisions on what's best for their pet. There's a lot on the internet about the negative. I ask that you consider the positives as well when deciding. Vaccines are not just a way for the vet to make money. The diseases we are protecting them from are still out there and running rampant in our world.
Thank you for taking the time to educate yourself and make informed decisions for your family member. They count on us to do what we think is best for them. Remember, what works for one does not always work for all. Each dog and family, and their risk factors, are different.
Lisa