Canine Vaccinations
How Necessary are the ‘Yearly Booster Shots”?
Recent studies are disputing the necessity for annual vaccinations for your dogs and cats. There seems to be no  validity to the ritual of yearly vaccinations due to the way in which they work. When a vaccination is received it creates antibodies which in turn defend the body from an invasion of the virus. After the initial “puppy shots” are given at the appropriate intervals the animals build up immunity to the viruses. The Chairman of the Department of Path biological Sciences, at the University of Wisconsin, Dr. Ronald Schultz Ph.D. writes "Only the immune response to TOXINS requires boosters (e.g. tetanus toxin booster, in humans, is recommended once every 7-10 years). NO toxin vaccines are currently used for dogs and cats." He adds "Furthermore, revaccination fails to stimulate a secondary response as a result of interference by existing antibodies."
Put plainly Booster shots are of no benefit! Dr. Christina Chambreau D.V.M. states "Would you rebel if your doctor told you to have Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, and Hepatitis shots every year of your life until you died, instead of only a few doses as a child?" Your dog has already received antibodies from his/her previous vaccinations. When a booster is given it is rendered neutral by the existing antibodies. Repeatedly vaccinating your dog offers absolutely no benefit whatsoever. It is virtually impossible for your dog to achieve double immunity. 
Existing antibodies can actually hinder the immune system by interfering with any possible secondary response of the booster. The canine’s immune system is set up to retain information about viruses and has a built in plan of attack to fight off disease. When we repeatedly revaccinate it interferes with normal operations and can have the reverse affect and literally create more problems that may go unseen or unrecognized. Vaccines are used to create an immune response which enables the body to fight of disease. Over vaccinations create and irregular abnormalities in the immune system. This in turn may establish chronic disease in the animals. Some may even be life threatening such as Autoimmune Disease and anaphylaxis. Other conditions may hinder the dog’s ability to live and function to the fullest. To make it easier to understand, think about childhood vaccinations. We receive a series of vaccinations on a schedule time table that helps our bodies build up antibodies. Once the level of antibodies reaches its maximum we stopped receiving ‘booster shots’.
Acco rding to the American Veterinarian Medical Association’s Journal (#208, 1996 edition) “There is no scientific data to support a recommendation for annual administration of vaccines. Furthermore, repeated administration of vaccines may be associated with a higher risk of Vaccinosis, a reaction to vaccinations.” You may not see the effects for months or years but it is lurking in the background. Hanging out and doing its dirty damage. Autoimmune Disease, Aphylaxis, ear infections, joint pain, aggression, and hypothyroidism are but a few of the hidden dangers."
"There is little scientific documentation that backs up label claims for annual administration of most vaccines. In the past, it was believed that annual vaccination would not hurt and would probably help most animals. However concerns about side effects have begun to change this attitude. The client is paying for something with no effect or with the potential for an adverse reaction."
“Annual vaccination schedules have ALWAYS been based on the suggestions of the vaccine manufacturers –- NOT on independent research.” Perhaps there is a link between the recommendation of the manufacturers and their pocket book? For the sake of our beloved pets we need to start holding our veterinarians more accountable to the health and well being of those in their care.
Don’t be afraid to discuss the issue of vaccinations with you Veterinarians, they should have your dog’s best interest at heart.
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