Dr. Jean Dodd's Recommended Vaccination Schedule

Dr. Dodds is an internationally recognized authority in veterinary hematology and immunology.

Dogs and cats immune systems mature fully at 6 months. If a modified live virus vaccine is given after 6 months of age, it produces immunity, which is good for the life of the pet (i.e.: canine distemper, parvo, feline distemper). 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.

Not only are annual boosters for parvo and distemper unnecessary, they subject the pet 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 mothers milk. This natural protection can last 8-14 weeks. Puppies & kittens 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 month) will provide lifetime immunity.

Canine Vaccination Protocol, 2004
Minimal Vaccine Use

by W. Jean Dodds, D.V.M., Hemopet, 938 Stanford Street, Santa Monica, CA 90403
310/828-4804; Fax 310/828-8251

Dr. Dodds is an internationally recognized authority in veterinary hematology and immunology and has done extensive research with Kerry Blue Terriers. Dr. Dodds is a Director of the Kerry Blue Terrier Foundation.

Note: the following vaccine protocol is offered for those dogs where minimal vaccinations are advisable. The schedule is one I reccommend and should not interpreted to mean that other protocols recommended by a veterinarian would be less satisfactory. It’s a matter of professional judgement and choice.

• 9-10 weeks - Distemper + parvovirus, MLV (e.g. Intervet Progsrd Puppy DPV)
• 14 weeks - Same as above
• 16-18 weeks - (optional) Same as above
• 20 weeks or older - if allowable by law Rabies
• 1 year - Distemper + Parvovirus, MLV
• 1 year - (give 3-4 weeks apart from distemper/parvovirus booster) Rabies, killed 3-year product

Perform vaccine antibody titers for distemper and parvovirus annually thereafter.  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.