Dr Jean Dodds: "This schedule is the one I recommend and should NOT be interpreted to mean that other protocols recommended by a veterinarian would be less satisfactory. It's a matter of professional judgment and choice."

A series of MLV (Modified Live Virus) vaccinations is given starting at 8 weeks and given 3-4 weeks apart up to 16 weeks of age. Usually at 8, 12, and 16 weeks. Another vaccination given sometime after 6 months of age, usually at 1 year 4 months and will provide lifetime immunity.

"Dogs immune systems mature fully at 6 months. If a modified live virus (MLV) vaccine is given after 6 months of age (usually at 1 year and 4 months), it produces immunity, which is thought to be good for the life of the pet as seen from titer testing results. If another MLV vaccine is given a year later, the antibodies from the first vaccine neutralize the antigens of the second vaccine and there is little or no effect. The titer is not 'boosted' nor are more memory cells induced. So please don’t over vaccinate.

Not only are annual boosters for parvo and distemper unnecessary, they subject the puppy to potential risks of allergic reactions and immune-mediated hemolytic anemia. There is no scientific documentation to back up label claims for annual administration of MLV vaccines. Puppies receive antibodies through their mother’s milk. This natural protection can last 8-14 weeks. Puppies should NOT be vaccinated at LESS than 8 weeks. Maternal immunity will neutralize the vaccine and little protection (0-38%) will be produced. Vaccination at 6 weeks will, however, delay the timing of the first highly effective vaccine. Vaccinations given 2 weeks apart suppress rather than stimulate the immune system. A series of vaccinations is given starting at 8 weeks and given 3-4 weeks apart up to 16 weeks of age. Another vaccination given sometime after 6 months of age (usually at 1 year 4 months) will provide lifetime immunity."

·     I use only killed 3 year rabies vaccine for adults and give it separated from other vaccines by 2-4 weeks. In some states, they may be able to give titer test result in lieu of booster.

·     I do not use bordetella, corona virus, leptospirosis or Lyme vaccines unless these diseases are endemic in the local area. Many breeds of toy dogs have allergic reactions to leptospirosis vaccinations. Furthermore, the currently licensed leptospira bacterins do not contain the serovars causing the majority of clinical leptospirosis seen today.

·        Never vaccinate bitches during estrus, pregnancy or lactation.

·        Never vaccinate during times of stress such as: surgery, travel, illness or infection.

·        Never vaccinate while the dog is under anesthesia in case of an allergic reaction.

·        Titer testing is recommended for animals previously experiencing adverse vaccine reactions or dogs with suppressed immune systems.

If you're able to keep your puppy away from communicable diseases i.e. Parvo & Distemper, by avoiding areas ill dogs may visit, I suggest you prolong the first shot until as late as possible, i.e. 16 weeks of age. Give another shot anytime after 6 months of age and your puppy will be immune for life. Most puppy's bodies are fully able to accept a shot at 16 weeks and are immune for many months.

Also, please prolong the rabies shot until 6 or more months of age. At 6 months your dogs immune system is fully developed and the vaccination should reliably provide immunity for the life of the dog.

This means you do not and should not over-vaccinate your dog by giving him annul 'boosters', they do NOT boost the immune system, they suppress it...

·        Please don’t over vaccinate your puppy.

To Contact Dr. Jean Dodds:

Home Office: (Mon/Tues/Fri)

 Phone 310/ 828-4804 --Pacific Time

 Fax: 310/ 828-8251

 938 Stanford St.

 Santa Monica, CA 90403 USA