Re: [PyrNet-L] Medical? Parvo vaccinations

[MGApeach@aol.com]

<< What are the safe ones to give? I mean killed vs the other? 
 and is there a particular brand that is safer? Thanks >>

I work for a vet and am also a college student of Veterinary Technology. I
talked to the Doctor and looked through several refrence books today. Both
kinds have advantages and disadvantages. Some of them are: modified live
vaccines give some amount of rapid protection, while killed need at least two
vaccinations before protection. With live vaccinations there is a very small
risk of inducing the illness you are vaccinating against if the immune system
is allready compromised. That is why we never vaccinate a sick animal. Also
the live vaccines give longer, higher immunity than killed. As for brands, we
use Vanguard at the clinic. I have also used Fort Dodge on my own animals.

Puppies really do not need to be vaccinated untill 8 weeks if the bitch is
well vaccinated. Then we give boosters at 12 and 16 weeks. Rabies cannot be
given to pups less than 12 weeks. When the pups get the colostrum (the first
milk) they get maternal antibodies that can last anywhere between 8 and 10
weeks of age. This is why it is important for puppies to nurse immediately. If
the mother is well vaccinated the pups get the antibodies in those crucial
first hours; as long as they have the antibodies, the pups immune system will
neutralize the vaccine. (thus throwing away money) Since we do not know
exactly when the antibodies wear off, we booster the immune system. And it is
very important not to expose your pup to other dogs (Petsmart, the park, etc.)
untill after the last booster shot. Before any vaccinations, your animals
should have a health exam by your veterinarian. 

I hope this helps!

Melissa, Maddie, Samson, Tanner and the newest addition..... Bailey (the brat)