We all agree that immunizing our pets against dangerous diseases is vitally important to their health.  But were you aware that the average puppy receives more than 18 vaccines in the first 3 months of its life and a kitten will receive 18-19 vaccines within its first 4 months?   Did you know that repeated vaccination is not necessary to maintain your pet’s immunity?  It is a fact that there is no scientific evidence that vaccinating every year or even 3 years produces any greater immunization. Did you also know that there is a simple blood test called a “titer” test that can determine whether or not your pet is actually immunized to specific diseases?  Furthermore, were you aware that over-vaccinating can result in serious illness and even death in our pets?  Unfortunately, it is a sad fact that economics are more at play in determining how often your pet is vaccinated than the health and well-being of the animal.  There is considerable evidence and solid research to support the fact that we are endangering our pets through over-vaccination.  Drawing on more than 40 years of research by Dr. Ronald Schuiltz and others, Dr. Karen Becker, an integrative veterinarian, is attempting to educate pet owners on this subject.  At The Critters & Me we have seen and dealt with the effects of over-vaccination and we would like to encourage all pet owners to educate themselves on this subject.  Below is a link to a video by Dr. Becker highlighting some of the dangers and alternatives.  Please use this material by Dr. Becker, Dr. Dodds, Dr. Schultz and others to begin your education process.  It is vital for your peace of mind and your pet’s health.  Let us be clear, vaccines are very important, but misuse and overuse of vaccines can be very harmful.  It is not necessary to give you pet every vaccine that the drug companies invent just because they invented them.  It is up to us to learn the proper use and avoid the misuse of this tool. 

Are Vaccines Neccessary for pets? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i149BWNedd4