Booster shots for pets

[fit44]

I'm very aganist booster shots. After 3 of my dogs got shots they all got cancer right after getting their shots! After each dog had their yearly shots they all got sick within 3 weeks of the shots. All were very healthy, young mix breed dogs who got lukemia, spleen, and stomach cancers. This is where the vets make their money so of course they are going to push vaccinations.
At least holistic vets will do the titer tests to see if your dog is healthy to get shots.

One more thing I would like to add. If your going to adopt a pet go to the shelter or pet rescue!!
I volunteer at my local shelter and there are tons of great dogs waiting for a good home. Many black dogs that get over looked for lighter colored dogs and puppies. People just don't notice them so my shelter has started putting colorful bandanas on them so they stand out more.

Don't buy from breeders when dogs are literally dying at shelters!!

I truly believe choosing not to vaccinate will add years to the life of your pet.
My vet believes titers are not 100% accurate, so if you are in a high risk situation you need to evaluate.

I wanted to comment about rescue and shelter pets. Some rescue groups/and shelters require you to vaccinate as part of the adoption agreement. They can ask you to provide proof at any time. Do they do it? I'm not sure.
I worked for a pure breed rescue doing home checks. Our group had strict guidelines for adoption. Rightfully so. Most of these animals come from neglectful situations. Just to be clear....I'm not saying owners who choose not to vaccinate are neglectful!!
But, I do know that vaccinations are often part of the adoption agreement.
Believe me, I considered not vaccinating because I do believe our pets are over vaccinated. Even though it is the law, my holistic vet would have honored my decision to skip boosters.
Believe it or not, my regular vet will too. My vet did warm me that if my pet harms someone (ie scratches, bites) animal control can take your animal away from you if they are not vaccinated.

 

[horseshowmom]

This thread has been both interesting and informative! Thanks everyone who posted references, it will help us all as we debate our decision (whatever it may be) with our vets.
Also, I just wanted to say how impressed I am with everyone's courtesy and respect shown to others. I often read only because I never want to become embroiled in drama, but I am so amazed at how friendly everyone is and how willing to share their knowledge.
Way to go Cathe nation!

 

[hiitdogs]

I think the only dog vaccination that is mandated is rabies since it could cause a risk to humans. I don't believe parvo, distemper, etc. are mandated.

Whereas I understand that adoption agencies want to make sure that the pets they adopt out are being taken care of, I believe mandating certain vaccination schedules is a little over the top. When I was looking to adopt a dog a few years ago, I found some of the adoption agencies, especially the private ones somewhat hostile, condenscending and some didn't even respond to emails or calls.
On the other hand, there is an older couple at the dog park that I frequent with my dogs, the dog they adopted is an Australian Cattledog/Pitbull mix. That dog needs at least 2 hours of exercise every day and those folks can barely walk, nor can they even get there when the dog misbehaves and attacks other dogs, which she usually does, since she doesn't get enough exercise nor does she get disciplined. I really wonder what that adoption agency was thinking!

I understand the plea that people should adopt from shelter but I also have to say that there ARE reasons to "buy" a dog from a reputable and responsible breeder in certain circumstances.

 

[fit44]

I think the only dog vaccination that is mandated is rabies since it could cause a risk to humans. I don't believe parvo, distemper, etc. are mandated.

Whereas I understand that adoption agencies want to make sure that the pets they adopt out are being taken care of, I believe mandating certain vaccination schedules is a little over the top. When I was looking to adopt a dog a few years ago, I found some of the adoption agencies, especially the private ones somewhat hostile, condenscending and some didn't even respond to emails or calls.
On the other hand, there is an older couple at the dog park that I frequent with my dogs, the dog they adopted is an Australian Cattledog/Pitbull mix. That dog needs at least 2 hours of exercise every day and those folks can barely walk, nor can they even get there when the dog misbehaves, which is usually does, since she doesn't get enough exercise. I really wonder what that adoption agency was thinking!

I understand the plea that people should adopt from shelter but I also have to say that there ARE reasons to "buy" a dog from a reputable and responsible breeder in certain circumstances.

The sad part is that some rescue groups have somewhat of a God complex.
We went through the adoption process. Had our home checked after submitting an application. I was a nervous wreck. I wanted to be deemed adoption worthy. My husband, was the opposite. We were approved, but getting them to find us the "right" dog was a chore. We grew impatient and ended up getting a puppy because of all the red tape.
I later volunteered for that same group
Bottom line...my dogs are my children who just happen to have fur. I worry over their health and care daily. My boxers are my first pets as an adult. I waited until my human children were older Anyway, I'm making mistakes with my fur kids just like I have with my human. I'm kind of glad I don't have to answer to a rescue group.

I hope my comments are not too negative. I still believe rescue is a wonderful option. I love my breed with all my heart. They all deserve a loving home. I would like to adopt a senior dog and give him/her a soft couch to live his life out on. That's my dream

 

[hiitdogs]

I totally agree, Cynthia, some rescue groups have sort of a holier than thou attitude.

I understand the worry about fur babies. When my Mini Aussie, Pepper had her puppies last year, if I could have, I probably would have installed nanny cameras in their new homes

 

[August]

Thanks again for the info and advice.

I'll take all 4 cats as planned for their yearly visit, and then tell the vet how I feel uncomfortable about the booster and see how he reacts.

But I'm fairly sure if we decide to do get boosters this year, that we'll be deciding not to get them from next year.

Many thanks!


ETA : Yes, I have heard about getting the shot on the leg instead of between the shoulders. Thanks, I'll ask the vet about this, too.