Why are annual dog vaccinations needed when titer tests are an option?

Hi there! Some dog owners do opt to vaccinate on a more extended schedule, since there is evidence that the vaccines for distemper, parvo, etc. probably provide immunity for several years in most dogs after the initial series is finished. However, Tia may need vaccinations for other illnesses such as Bordetella (kennel cough), leptospirosis, etc. which do need to be given yearly. And of course, she needs a yearly wellness exam regardless to check for any problems :) I would recommend discussing this topic with your veterinarian to see what he/she suggests for Tia given her age and overall health status. You could also opt to have vaccine titers done to see if she has a protective level of antibody present, and make your decision based on that.

Vaccination is not an exact science and for some diseases in particular long term immunity is not generated and pets become at risk as immunity wanes. There is a fine balance between likelihood of exposure, severity of disease and anticipated length of immunity from vaccines. Some vaccines are licensed for use every 3 years, others have only been proven to be protective for 12 months . I recommend discussing local and individual risk factors with your own vet for a tailored plan

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I understand your concerns. The costs of tests depend on what the lab charges your Vet. I know that we charge about $150 for a Rabies titer (PA). I would call practices in your area. California has a higher standard of living than other areas. Your vet has little control over lab prices. Your Vet was probably trying to just be honest and up front that it is just cheaper to vaccinated and meant no harm. For what it’s worth a high rabies titer is not valid as proof of vaccination according to the law. It will not protect your dogs from quarantine at your cost if they bite someone. Rabies is deadly in humans and the law sadly doesn’t care about titers or over vaccination. I wish you the best!

Titers tests measure the body's level of immune system proteins, what is called antibodies. It does not mean your puppy still cannot get the disease, and they should not be used in place of vaccines. That's because there is no way to predict antibody levels three or six months down the line. These levels can change due to any number of factors including stress, disease, and medication, so these levels may not be consistent over time. Titer tests should not take the place of the recommended vaccine protocol, and I would have your puppy vaccinated for parvo as well as other deadly diseases like rabies and distemper. I hope this helps!

Here is a link that you may find helpful. https://www.aaha.org/guidelines/canine_vaccination_guidelines.aspx Typically we booster puppies, then they get a booster a year later, and then every 3 years. This is typically for rabies and distemper-parvo. But different counties/states may have their own rules regarding rabies as it is required by law. A titer for distemper-parvo can also be performed instead of just routine vaccination. Lepto and bordetella are based on the pets risk and not core vaccines. Dogs that are on heartworm prevention do not need to be dewormed unless they have tapeworms or another parasite is suspected. I hope this helps and thank you for using PetCoach!

Your crew is adorable! Thanks for including a picture. The answer to which vaccinations your dogs need and how frequently depends on their ages and individual risk factors. I am attaching a link to the American Animal Hospital Association's vaccine guideline below. https://www.aaha.org/guidelines/canine_vaccination_guidelines/practice_vaccination.aspx In general, they recommend that all dogs receive DAPP and Rabies vaccinations. Those vaccines are considered Core vaccinations. Any other vaccinations are considered Non-Core and are only recommended for dogs that are at risk of contracting those diseases. The above website also includes a Lifestyle-Based Vaccine Calculator to help you determine which diseases your dogs may be at risk for, but be sure to discuss that with your veterinarian to make the best decision. DAPP vaccinations are generally given every 3 years in adult dogs. The Rabies vaccination is given every 1-3 years depending on your local requirements. The non-core vaccinations do not appear to last as long, so those vaccination need to be given more frequently, but it sounds like your dogs are not likely at risk for those diseases. Good luck! I hope that was helpful and answered your question. Thanks for using PetCoach.

This will depend on the type of vaccines used. Usually your dog will need a once yearly rabies vaccination, and a once yearly DAPP2 vaccination. Depending on where you live and whether he has access to water puddles, ponds, etc, he will also need a once yearly Leptospirosis Vaccination. Consult with your pet doctor, he will recommend what is needed in your area.