The American Animal Hospital Association Canine Vaccination Task Force has issued new guidelines in 2011 for vaccinations.
They recommend that vaccinations for Distemper, Parvovirus and Adenovirus can now be administered every 3 years instead of annually. The task force also said that distemper and parvo vaccines provide at least 5 year immunities and adenovirus vaccine at least 7 years. Vaccinations for rabies must be given as required by the law where you live.
Because there are so many questions about Leptospirosis, vaccination is not recommended. There are many different types of Lepto, although only a few cause problems. The vaccine is not always effective. Check if you live in areas where your dog plays often with dirty water puddles and rat-infested areas.
The AAHA also informs us that the task force that developed the new guidelines included experts in immunology, infectious diseases, internal medicine, law and clinical practice as well as published and unpublished documentation.
Vaccinations for Lyme disease, Parainfluenza and Bordetella should be given as recommended by your veterinarian for dogs in high risk areas.
If your dog is chronically ill with diabetes, cancer, kidney disease, liver disease, etc., ask your veterinarian about getting a release from any vaccinations Vaccines can put a burden on an already compromised immune system.
If you have doubts about whether your dog is immunized, you can have titers done for Parvovirus, Distemper and Rabies. The titer for Leptospirosis may not give a true reading.
