Rabies titers test

[Deb's Tiny Dogs]

Just last week Cali was due for her vaccinations. As I usually do, I asked for a titers test for parvo and distemper, which they did ($69.00 - ugh!).

Then I asked for titers for rabies and they wouldn't do it. They said the state of Kansas will only recognize a one year or a three year rabies shot, but not a positive titers test.

They said it's because they have no way of knowing when during the following year a positive titers test may go negative.

What are your thoughts on rabies titers and has anyone been successful in getting rabies titered in their area?

[fairlight]

Mandatory rabies shot here Deb....Every year.

[Deb's Tiny Dogs]

Originally Posted by fairlight

Mandatory rabies shot here Deb....Every year.

They don't even recognize a three year shot? That can at least cut down on the negative potential vaccination overkill in dogs.

[Moo]

Never heard of a rabies titre. Rabies vaccines are in the law, I figure that's how it'll stay in most places.

[bernicesmama]

our laws are like yours, you have to have a valid rabies vaccine on file or you are breaking the law.

[Deb's Tiny Dogs]

Originally Posted by bernicesmama

our laws are like yours, you have to have a valid rabies vaccine on file or you are breaking the law.

I'm just wondering why a valid, positive rabies titre wouldn't be considered valid. I guess I'm questioning the law.

[bernicesmama]

Originally Posted by Deb's Tiny Dogs

I'm just wondering why a valid, positive rabies titre wouldn't be considered valid. I guess I'm questioning the law.

my guess would be that the level of rabies immunity could change within that year (or three years) so there would be no guarantee at all that the dog is immune. (did that make any sense?)

[kshort49]

Same laws here in NY-1yr for the puppies, then 3 years after that. It does make sense that you may not know when the vaccine runs out during the 3 years between vaccinations.

[Deb's Tiny Dogs]

Originally Posted by bernicesmama

my guess would be that the level of rabies immunity could change within that year (or three years) so there would be no guarantee at all that the dog is immune. (did that make any sense?)

Yes, I guess so. I've just done soooo much reading in the past year about the negative, cumulative effects of over vaccinating (vaccinating even when a titres is positive) on our pets.

I have been titering Bogey for three years now for parvo and distemper and the titres have been positive every year. There's growing data that once a dog gets it initial puppy shots and one booster, they may be good for years; maybe life.

Cali just tested positive for parvo and distemper titers, too.

Rabies may have to be the exception.

My holistic vet said the one to REALLY stay away from is the Lepto vaccine. It's very hard on the dogs and only vaccinates for about 4 out of a hundred strains anyway.

[Bosley Slave]

I will be having a rabies titer, my vet will do it. Most of the studies show that rabies are good for at least 7 years. Our laws are behind times and stupid, I am so happy Wisconsin is doing the big study "Rabies Challenge". I checked the last reported rabies here at it was in 1939!!! As far as I am concerned, rabies is not a threat here, our dogs do not live a threat lifestyle and if I have to break the law, well so be it.

DTD, I agree with Lepto.....common reactions to the vaccine and very little protection.

Bosley is due for his one year boosters. I am going to do titers before I even consider any vaccines.