Protecting Your Pet with Gentle, science-based care

 

Individualized Immunization for Optimal Health

An animal’s protective immunity status can be validated through three main pathways: Protective Titer results, Vaccination records, or Veterinarian‑Issued Medical Exemptions.

Some special conditions or exceptions may or may not exist in different geographic areas. For a current list of of rules, see www.animallaw.info and search for the Rabies table by state for information. As with everything, things are always changing and you can also connect with a local legal counselor to help you understand your options in your area.

Immunology

Essential Protection

These vaccines protect against diseases that are widespread, highly contagious, or pose  health risks:

  • Dogs: Rabies, DHPP / DAPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza or Adenovirus)
  • Cats: Rabies, FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)

Other Vaccines:

Risk-Based Pet Owner Decisions
Additional vaccines to consider based on your pet’s specific exposure risks:

  • Bordetella (kennel cough) for social dogs, doggie daycare dogs
  • Other vaccines exist and can be reviewed w care professional

If your pet has been previously vaccinated for the essential vacines, ask your care professional about Titer Immunology Testing to see if your pet needs additional boosters.

  • If you decide to vacinate ask about 3‑year boosters for core vaccines if your pet is healthy and eligible. 
  • Request single‑vaccine appointments and not subjecting your pet to mutliple vaccination shots like offered at low cost clinics and other clinics. Your pet deserves fairness.
  • Discuss your pet’s breed, weight, age, current health status and medical history to tailor the safest schedule.
  • Confirm the quality, contents and manufacturer of each vaccine product. Most vaccine products state only healthy animals should be vaccinated. Make sure the product is safe and has good performance history. 

Review your pets needs with your veterinarian and ask your veterinarian to discuss the safest and balanced schedule for your pet.

Gentle Approach

Comprehensive Health Assessment
Before any vaccination, care providers should conduct thorough examinations to ensure your pet is healthy enough for immunization. Never vaccinate sick or stressed animals.

Stress-Reduction Techniques

  • Pre-visit calming protocols
  • Pet owner to stay with pet
  • Topical numbing agents when appropriate
  • Comfortable positioning and gentle restraint

Titer Testing 
For pets with previous vaccine reactions, aging, immune compromised, underlying health issues or owners preferring alternatives, ask about antibody titer testing to measure existing immunity levels before deciding on booster vaccinations.

Remember: The best immunology protocol is one that’s tailored to your individual pet’s needs while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficacy.

The content and resources provided on the website are for informational purposes only and are not meant to diagnose, treat, or replace consulting with a veterinarian.  Find a gifted veterinarian that can work with you on providing the safest path immunology schedule for your pet.