Breeder Vaccinations

Vaccination should be considered a serious medical decision. Although we may make it look like a simple shot' there are many variables that we have considered.  Vaccinations do not directly protect our pets.  Vaccinations stimulate the immune system to recognize disease causing viruses and bacteria.  They stimulate the immune system to respond by producing antibodies against the virus or bacteria as well as some other responses to protect the pet from the disease.  The pet is most protected about 2-3 weeks after a vaccination is properly timed and administered.

Pets should only be vaccinated when they appear healthy upon physical exam.  Giving vaccines to sick or infected pets may not help the pet, and may put the pet at risk for other problems.   Since vaccines are meant to stimulate the immune system, giving the pet too many vaccines at one time can cause problems.  Since vaccines are meant to stimulate the immune system, the pet should be physically mature enough for the immune system to respond to the vaccination.  Giving vaccinations at too early of an age can leave a pet more susceptible to disease until they are properly vaccinated.

Dr. Bennett has taken classes in immunology while in veterinary school and has continued her immunology education with AVMA sanctioned continuing education classes as well as reading journal articles and other veterinary sources.  Dr. Bennett regularly communicates with local, national and internationally licensed veterinarians about vaccinations.

We take careful consideration in selecting the manufacturers and components of our vaccines.  As well, we ensure proper transportation, storage and handling of vaccination products. You should allow your pet to only be vaccinated by trained veterinary staff with vaccines that have been chosen for their known effectiveness.  You should only allow vaccines to be given to your pet if you are satisfied the vaccine product has been properly handled and refrigerated from manufacturer to administration.

Many times before you have adopted or purchased your pet, the prior owner or breeder may have had the pet vaccinated.  The pet may have been examined by an ethical, licensed veterinarian and a proper vaccine selected and administered.  On the other hand; the breeder may have purchased some vaccine product and administered it to your pet without a veterinary exam.  Please bring in any information the breeder has given you about vaccines or other health recommendations.  As with all pets brought to us, we will determine a plan for future vaccinations based on the information you have brought us.

August 20, 2005