Dog Vaccine Protocol by Dr. Jean Dodds

Dr. Jean Dodds is a veterinarian and researcher who has developed a vaccine protocol that is designed to reduce the risk of adverse reactions to vaccines in dogs. This protocol involves several steps, including:

1. Testing: Before vaccinating a dog, it is recommended to perform a blood test called a "vaccine titer" to determine if the dog is already immune to the disease being vaccinated against. If the titer is positive, it may not be necessary to vaccinate.

2. Timing: Dr. Dodds recommends spacing out vaccines over a longer period of time and avoiding giving multiple vaccines at the same time, as this can increase the risk of adverse reactions.

3. Dose: Using the minimum effective dose of vaccine is recommended to reduce the risk of adverse reactions.

4. Supportive care: Administering a homeopathic remedy called Thuja occidentalis after vaccination may help to reduce the risk of adverse reactions.

It is important to note that this protocol is not universally accepted by veterinarians and may not be appropriate for all dogs. It is always best to discuss your dog's vaccination needs with a veterinarian and make a decision based on your dog's individual circumstances.

9 – 10 weeks of age
Distemper + Parvovirus, MLV
e.g. Merck Nobivac (Intervet Progard) Puppy DPV

14 – 15 weeks of age
Distemper + Parvovirus, MLV

18 weeks of age
Parvovirus only, MLV
Note: New research states that last puppy parvovirus vaccine should be at 18 weeks old.

20 weeks or older, if allowable by law
Rabies – give 3-4 weeks apart from other vaccines
Mercury-free (thimerosol-free, TF)

1 year old
Distemper + Parvovirus, MLV
This is an optional booster or titer. If the client intends not to booster after this optional booster or intends to retest titers in another three years, this optional booster at puberty is wise.

1 year old
Rabies – give 3-4 weeks apart from other vaccines
3-year product if allowable by law; mercury-free (TF)

Perform vaccine antibody titers for distemper and parvovirus every three years thereafter, or more often, if desired. Vaccinate for rabies virus according to the law, except where circumstances indicate that a written waiver needs to be obtained from the primary care veterinarian. In that case, a rabies antibody titer can also be performed to accompany the waiver request.

What Are The Core Dog Vaccinations?

Core puppy vaccinations and dog vaccinations are considered vital to all canines based on a universal risk of exposure, the severity of disease, and the risk of transmission to other dogs, as well as other animal species including human beings.

The American Animal Hospital Association's Canine Task Force considers the following dog vaccinations to be core:

• Rabies

• Canine Parvovirus

• Canine Distemper

• Hepatitis

Noncore - vaccines include:

• Bordetella (kennel cough)

• Canine Influenza (dog flu)

• Leptospirosis

• Lyme vaccine

Bordetella Bronchiseptica

This highly infectious bacterium causes severe fits of coughing, whooping, vomiting, and, in rare cases, seizures and death. It is the primary cause of kennel cough. There are injectable and nasal spray vaccines available.

If you plan on boarding your puppy in the future, attending group training classes, or using dog daycare services, often proof of this vaccination will be a requirement.
Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium that is one of the primary causes of kennel cough in dogs. The Bordetella vaccine, also known as the kennel cough vaccine, is commonly recommended for dogs, especially those who frequently interact with other dogs in places like boarding facilities, dog parks, or training classes.

The timing for administering the Bordetella vaccine may vary depending on factors such as the dog's age, lifestyle, and risk of exposure. Puppies can generally receive their first Bordetella vaccination between 6 and 8 weeks of age. The initial vaccine is often followed by a booster shot 2-4 weeks later.

After the initial series of vaccinations, the frequency of Bordetella vaccinations may also vary. Some veterinarians recommend an annual booster, while others suggest a 6-month interval, particularly for dogs with higher exposure risks. It's essential to consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate vaccination schedule for your small dog based on their specific circumstances.

Additionally, it's worth noting that the Bordetella vaccine is available in various forms, including intranasal and injectable formulations. Your veterinarian can advise you on the most suitable option for your dog.

Remember that while the Bordetella vaccine can help reduce the severity of symptoms associated with kennel cough, it may not entirely prevent the disease. Proper hygiene, minimizing exposure to infected dogs, and maintaining a healthy immune system are also important in reducing the risk of infection.

Canine Distemper

A severe and contagious disease caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal (GI), and nervous systems of dogs, raccoons, skunks, and other animals, distemper spreads through airborne exposure (through sneezing or coughing) from an infected animal. The virus can also be transmitted by shared food and water bowls and equipment. It causes discharges from the eyes and nose, fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, twitching, paralysis, and, often, death. This disease used to be known as “hard pad” because it causes the footpad to thicken and harden.

There is no cure for distemper. Treatment consists of supportive care and efforts to prevent secondary infections, control symptoms of vomiting, seizures, and more. If the animal survives the symptoms, it is hoped that the dog’s immune system will have a chance to fight it off. Infected dogs can shed the virus for months.

Canine Hepatitis

Infectious canine hepatitis is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the liver, kidneys, spleen, lungs, and eyes of the affected dog. This disease of the liver is caused by a virus that is unrelated to the human form of hepatitis. Symptoms range from a slight fever and congestion of the mucous membranes to vomiting, jaundice, stomach enlargement, and pain around the liver. Many dogs can overcome the mild form of the disease, but the severe form can kill. There is no cure, but doctors can treat the symptoms.

Canine Parainfluenza

One of several viruses that can contribute to kennel cough.

Coronavirus

The canine coronavirus is not the same virus that causes COVID-19 in people. COVID-19 is not thought to be a health threat to dogs, and there is no evidence it makes dogs sick. Canine coronavirus usually affects dogs’ gastrointestinal systems, though it can also cause respiratory infections. Signs include most GI symptoms, including loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Doctors can keep a dog hydrated, warm, and comfortable, and help alleviate nausea, but no drug kills coronaviruses.

Heartworm

When your puppy is around 12-to-16 weeks, talk to your vet about starting heartworm prevention. Though there is no vaccine for this condition, it is preventable with regularly administered heartworm medication that your veterinarian will prescribe.

The name is descriptive — these worms lodge in the right side of the heart and the pulmonary arteries (that send blood to the lungs), though they can travel through the rest of the body and sometimes invade the liver and kidneys. The worms can grow to 14 inches long and, if clumped together, block and injure organs.

New heartworm infection often causes no symptoms, though dogs in later stages of the disease may cough, become lethargic, lose their appetite or have difficulty breathing. Infected dogs may tire after mild exercise. Unlike most of the conditions listed here, which are passed by urine, feces, and other body fluids, heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes. Therefore, diagnosis is made via a blood test and not a fecal exam.

Kennel Cough

Also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, kennel cough results from inflammation of the upper airways. It can be caused by bacterial, viral, or other infections, such as Bordetella and canine parainfluenza, and often involves multiple infections simultaneously. Usually, the disease is mild, causing bouts of harsh, dry coughing; sometimes it’s severe enough to spur retching and gagging, along with a loss of appetite. In rare cases, it can be deadly. It is easily spread between dogs kept close together, which is why it passes quickly through kennels. Antibiotics are usually not necessary, except in severe, chronic cases. Cough suppressants can make a dog more comfortable.

Leptospirosis

Unlike most diseases on this list, Leptospirosis is caused by bacteria, and some dogs may show no symptoms at all. Leptospirosis can be found worldwide in soil and water. It is a zoonotic disease, meaning that it can be spread from animals to people. When symptoms do appear, they can include fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, loss of appetite, severe weakness and lethargy, stiffness, jaundice, muscle pain, infertility, and kidney failure (with or without liver failure). Antibiotics are effective, and the sooner they are given, the better.

Lyme Disease

Unlike the famous “bull’s-eye” rash that people exposed to Lyme disease often spot, no such telltale symptom occurs in dogs. Lyme disease (or borreliosis) is an infectious, tick-borne disease caused by a type of bacteria called a spirochete. Transmitted via ticks, an infected dog often starts limping, his lymph nodes swell, his temperature rises, and he stops eating. The disease can affect his heart, kidney, and joints, among other things, or lead to neurological disorders if left untreated. If diagnosed quickly, a course of antibiotics is extremely helpful, though relapses can occur months or even years later.

Parvovirus

Parvo is a highly contagious virus that affects all dogs, but unvaccinated dogs and puppies less than four months of age are at the most risk to contract it. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal system and creates a loss of appetite, vomiting, fever, and often severe, bloody diarrhea. Extreme dehydration can come on rapidly and kill a dog within 48-to-72 hours, so prompt veterinary attention is crucial. There is no cure, so keeping the dog hydrated and controlling the secondary symptoms can keep him going until his immune system beats the illness. At Stokeshire, we use a variety of cleaning products and a robust gut health regimen to help bolster our puppy’s immune systems.

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease of mammals that invades the central nervous system, causing headache, anxiety, hallucinations, excessive drooling, fear of water, paralysis, and death. It is most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. Treatment within hours of infection is essential, otherwise, death is highly likely. Most states require regular rabies vaccinations. Check with your vet about rabies vaccination laws and requirements in your area.

Of course, your veterinarian should weigh in and can always provide more information and guidance if needed on necessary and optional vaccinations.

Are Dog Vaccinations Required By Law?

Rabies vaccinations are required by law in most states, including WI. Owners must periodically have their dogs and puppies vaccinated against rabies, but the specific time frames for puppy vaccinations and dog vaccinations vary by state. In WI, the puppy rabies vaccine is generally given at 16 weeks ( no earlier than week 15), and the first rabies vaccination is good for one year. For adult dogs, the rabies vaccination is good for three years. We recommend, a puppy would receive the rabies vaccine at 20 weeks, 1 year, and then again at age 4. (See above)

Wisconsin law says all dogs must be vaccinated for rabies by the age of five months. Rabies vaccines are good for 1 year or 3 years, depending on age at vaccination and vaccination history. Check with your vet to be sure your dog stays up to date on rabies vaccination

The Amount Of Time Each Vaccination Is Effective Is As Follows:

• DHPP - 3 years

• Rabies - 3 years

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough) - 1 year

• Canine Influenza - 1 year

• Leptospirosis - 1 year

• Lyme Disease - 1 year

  
  
  

Side Effects And Risks Associated With Dog Vaccinations

The benefits of vaccinations far outweigh any risks. Adverse reactions to dog vaccines are rare. However, As with any medication or immunization protocol, puppy vaccinations and dog vaccinations can cause some side effects. Dog vaccinations stimulate your puppy or dog's immune system in order to create protection from specific infectious diseases. This can cause mild symptoms to occur ranging from soreness at the injection site to fever and allergic reactions. We do recommend that you have your puppy or dog vaccinated at a time when you can monitor them after the vaccination.

If your dog does experience any reaction to vaccinations, symptoms may include:

• Fever

• Severe sluggishness or lethargy

• Loss of appetite

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Pain or swelling around the injection site

• Collapse, difficulty breathing, and seizures (anaphylactic shock)

Just as with human vaccines, mild symptoms can be ignored. The majority of reactions are mild and short-lived. If you suspect a more severe reaction to puppy vaccines or dog vaccines, such as facial swelling, vomiting, or lethargy, you should contact your veterinarian immediately to determine whether any special care is needed.

Puppy Vaccinations Cost

• The average cost can average around $75—100. These will include the core vaccines, which are administered in a series of three: at 6-, 12-, and 16 weeks old.

• The core vaccines include the DHLPP (distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvo, and parainfluenza). Your doodle pup will also need a rabies vaccination, which is usually around $15—20. (Some clinics include the cost of the rabies vaccination.)

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