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Recently Family Pet changed the requirements of annual Distemper/Parvo
vaccines for dogs, based on University studies showing duration of immunity
lasting at least 3 years. Historically we gave the vaccine annually, based
on recommendations by the manufacturers; but based on this new information,
we have concluded that vaccination once every 3 years is sufficient.
Puppy booster vaccines are still required, and should
be followed with a one year DHLPP vaccine. Following this last vaccine,
DHLPP will be given every 3 years. For our older patients or those with
underlying disease processes such as autoimmune disease, liver or kidney
disease, we recommend that vaccine titers (a blood test) be run at the
end of 3 years. Titers actually measure distemper and Parvo antibodies
to determine if the animal is protected against these viruses and whether
it needs to be vaccinated or not.
These are new concepts in veterinary medicine, and Family
Pet wants to provide the most progressive and up-to-date medicine for
your pet. Please feel free to ask your veterinarian for more information,
or visit www.ivis.org
(a website at Cornell University).
Please note that dogs that board regularly may still
need to be vaccinated annually for DHLPP. Please check with your kennel
for its policy on vaccines.
Updated 10/03
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