What You May Not Know About Pet Vaccines

• Posted on 13 August 2014
• By Dr. Jill Tack
• Posted in how effective are pet vaccines, michigan law on vaccinations, pet owner’s rights, required cat vaccines, required dog vaccines, side effects of vaccinations, vaccinations, what to do after you vaccinate
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There are many vaccines options available for our pets and it seems that every trip to the vet is accompanied by a suggestion for yet another vaccination. Before jumping the gun on vaccinations, we highly encourage pet owners to research which vaccines (if any) are required by law in their area, if an extra vaccine will actually be beneficial, vaccine side effects, and how to help your pet cope after receiving a vaccination.

There are many vaccines options available for our pets and it seems that every trip to the vet is accompanied by a suggestion for yet another vaccination. Before jumping the gun on vaccinations, we highly encourage pet owners to research which vaccines (if any) are required by law in their area, if an extra vaccine will actually be beneficial, vaccine side effects, and how to help your pet cope after receiving a vaccination.

Which Dog or Cat Vaccinations are Required?

According to The Michigan Dog Law - Act 339 of 1919, dogs are required to be licensed in the county (or city) of residence. In order to obtain this license, the dog in question must have an up-to-date rabies vaccination.

The only vaccine for dogs that is required by the State of Michigan is the rabies vaccination. Under state law, cat’s do not require any vaccinations. (This may vary; check your local municipalities.)

While there are only five major manufacturers of animal vaccines, there are numerous preservatives that are used in vaccinations for dogs and cats that can have potentially harmful side effects.

Side Effects of Animal Vaccinations:

• Renal failure
• Kidney problems
• Muscle weakness
• Lung damage
• Gut dysbiosis
• Ataxia
• Cardiac arrest, shock, or failure
• Open sores
• Ulcers
• Deafness
• Changes in vision
• Skin eruptions and rashes

There are many additional side effects listed on vaccinations for dogs and cats that are associated with the preservatives in them.

How Effective are Pet Vaccines?

Because diseases are always changing and mutating, no one vaccine can protect against the current strain of a disease. The best form of protection from disease for your cat or dog is a healthy immune system. Animals must have a balanced diet (including supplements) that strengthens their immune system, which is key to fighting bacteria, viruses, and disease.

Pet Vaccinations & Your Rights

It is not required for you to vaccinate your pet with every "new" and "cutting-edge" vaccination. However, if it is unavoidable:

1. Ask for the vaccination to be done in front of you, so you can be ready with essential oils to put on the injection site. You will also be a calming presence for your pet.
2. Try using homeopathic antidotes. Call us at 248-548-3448 to ask what is needed for the homeopathic antidotes. Many times it is the bottle that the vaccine came in, which will need to be requested from the vet at the time of injection.
3. Plan ahead! At least one week before the vaccination, start boosting the immune system. There are many ways to boost the immune system naturally. For more information see our blog post called: "Immunity Building Supplements for Your Pets." You will also want to continue boosting the immune system for at least one week after the vaccination.
4. Detoxify the liver after the vaccination. This can be achieved easily by using the Detox Blend from Animal Essentials. Supporting the liver is important after a vaccination because the liver is responsible for removing toxins and cleaning the blood in your dog’s or cat’s body. There are single herbs that can be used to support the liver as well, including dandelion, milk thistle, and nettle.

Remember, that you are the only voice that your dog or cat has and they are unable to tell us if something is not right after they are vaccinated. Keep a close eye on your cat or dog immediately after any vaccinations and up to a week or two more for any adverse reactions at the injection site or changes in their disposition.