Holistic Care : Vaccination: Vaccine Concerns

Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia

"Booster vaccines" or annual re-administration of modified live virus vaccines like distemper and parvo virus do not provide added protection. In previously vaccinated adult animals antibodies from previous vaccinations block the new vaccine. Antibody levels are not increased, memory cells are not increased.(23 a)

The duration of immunity for modified live virus vaccines like K9 Distemper and Parvovirus have been proven to be 7 years by challenge and 15 and 7 years respectively by serology. Memory cells probably persist for life.(23a,23b)

There is no Scientific Data to support manufacturers label directions to re-administer MLV vaccines annually

Vaccines are not harmless. In addition to IMHA and injection site fibrosarcomas mentioned above adverse events and reactions will be discussed with each individual vaccine.

Modified live vaccines for diseases like Parvovirus and Distemper provide lifetime immunity when administered to adult ( >6 mo) dogs and cats.(23)

Vaccines should not be marketed in areas of the country where the diseases are very rare. Leptospirosis and Lyme disease are not prevalent in Texas.

The risk for side effects outweigh the possible benefits for diseases like Canine Leptospirosis.