Jul 15, 2017
In this first of a two-part series on vaccinations for dogs, Kate and Don talk with Dr. Judy Herman of the Animal Wellness Center in Augusta, Maine. In this show, we discuss what vaccines are and why vaccines are important for our pets. We discuss the different type of vaccines; modified live, killed, and recombinant and the differences between them and the infectious organisms they address; viruses versus bacteria. The Rabies Challenge Fund is discussed along with their latest research that indicates the Rabies vaccine is good for at least seven years. Chronic diseases that have been linked to over vaccinations are also addressed. Dr. Herman explains titer testing as an alternative to vaccinations for pets that have had reactions to vaccinations.
In the second segment of the show, Dr. Herman discusses which vaccines she recommends for puppies and older dogs starting off with an assessment of the dog’s health before she recommends anything. She stresses that it is imperative that a dog be healthy when vaccinated. The immunity puppies receive from their mother is also explained.
In the last segment of the show, we discuss the American Animal Hospital Associations (AAHA) recommended core vaccines; vaccines that the AAHA recommended for every dog. We also discuss the pros and cons of getting multiple vaccinations in a single shot or doing them singly at separate appointments. We consider dogs that are more likely to have an adverse reaction to a vaccine and some of the vaccine ingredients, like Mercury, that are suspected of causing adverse reactions. One reason why you want to ask your veterinarian about the specifics of the vaccines that they are using.
You can hear The Woof Meow Show on The Pulse AM620, WZON, and WKIT HD3 at 9 AM on Saturday. If you are not near a radio, listen on your computer at http://www.wzonthepulse.com or your smartphone or tablet with the free WZON 620 AM app. A podcast of the show is typically posted immediately after the show and can be downloaded at www.woofmeowshow.com and the Apple iTunes store.