~ What you need to know!

We have discussed the Weimaraner and vaccine reactions, and there was a promise made to discuss the Titer Test as recommended by the Weimaraner Club of America (WCA). Here are the previous links regarding the potential risk of a vaccine reaction:

• November 2–As Your Pup Begins Their Life with You

• November 3–Cautionary Tale (regarding Kris’ Luna)

Our recommendation is to get a Titer Test at sixteen-weeks of age rather than the typically recommended puppy shot. The idea is to avoid a potential vaccine reaction. If you call or visit your Veterinary about the Titer Test, you are likely to get some resistance, or if they are willing to do the test, the price-tag can be staggering. The regular Titer Test (that only screens for Parvo antibodies) cost us $125 several years ago. We are certain the cost has risen or is higher in metropolitan areas. Might we suggest you try to find a local Veterinary practice that offers VACCICHECK by Spectrum Labs? This test measures more, the results are generated quickly, and the cost is less than the Parvo only Titer Test. There is a sheet you can download and print for more information–this is relatively new. Not many Vets are familiar with this option.

Measures canine antibody titer to:

• Infectious Hepatitis (ICH)
• Parvovirus (CPV)
• Distemper (CDV)

Below in an excerpt from the WCA Vaccine Protocol—Click Here to go to their Web Page.

–the Weimaraner Club of America Health Committee recommends the following vaccine schedule:

8 weeks: Canine Distemper, Adenovirus Type 2, Parainfluenza– Parvovirus
12 weeks: Canine Distemper, Adenovirus Type 2, Parainfluenza– Parvovirus
15–16 weeks: An antibody titer is recommended to confirm immunity since a small proportion of puppies may still not be covered.

Puppies showing no evidence of antibody production in the titer should be re–inoculated.

The use of Corona, Leptospirosis, Bordatella and Lyme vaccines are not recommended unless these diseases are prevalent in the area; and should never be administered along with the core vaccines listed above, but rather separately, and at a time when the pup’s immune system is mature. Rabies vaccinations should be given as required by law, but not coincident with other vaccinations. If possible, wait until the puppy is older than 16 weeks.

If a serious adverse immune response occurs, further vaccination prior to one year of age is not recommended. Options should be discussed with your veterinarian. Some states provide exemptions for Rabies in cases where an underlying medical condition is likely to result in a life threatening condition in response to vaccination.

While this protocol helps in preventing reactions, it does not prevent them in all susceptible individuals.

We (Cliff and Shela at OwyheeStar) realize that some pups will need an additional vaccination–but avoiding as many vaccine reactions as possible is the best approach. We understand this information is overwhelming, and no one wants to face the worst possible scenario.