Protocol for Considering Safer Rabies Vaccination and Supportive Care for Dogs before and after vaccination.

In my practice, questions about vaccines arise more frequently than any other topic. Many, including myself, believe that over-vaccination is a significant issue. In this case, less is more, as the side effects of vaccines can be harmful to some dogs and seem to accumulate with repeated vaccinations. Therefore, using titer tests to determine the presence of adequate antibodies in the body is a much healthier option. Unfortunately, this approach is not accepted in most states and counties.

The information below is for educational purposes and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Many of the reported benefits of supportive remedies are anecdotal.

1. Selecting a Potentially Safer Rabies Vaccine

When discussing rabies vaccination with your veterinarian, you may want to inquire about the following options that are often considered among the safer choices:

• Thimerosal-Free Vaccines: Many modern rabies vaccines are formulated without thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative that some pet owners are concerned about. Examples mentioned include:
  • Merial IMRAB 3 TF (thimerosal-free). Research suggests IMRAB 3 TF is likely a safer option due to the absence of thimerosal. It is effective for dogs for at least three years. Boehringer Ingelheim now produces IMRAB vaccines.
  • Boehringer Ingelheim’s RABVAC 3 TF. Pet owners concerned about mercury exposure should specifically request thimerosal-free vaccines.
• 3-Year Vaccines vs. 1-Year Vaccines: While the formulations are identical to 1-year vaccines, choosing a 3-year vaccine may reduce the overall frequency of vaccination and cumulative exposure.
• Intradermal (ID) Administration: Discuss with your veterinarian the possibility of administering the rabies vaccine intradermally (into the skin) rather than intramuscularly (into the muscle). This method has been shown to be as safe and effective while potentially requiring a smaller dose, making it a potentially safer and more cost-effective option.

It is important to note that all licensed rabies vaccines for dogs in the US are inactivated, meaning there is no risk of your dog contracting rabies from the vaccine itself.

2. Pre-Vaccination Supportive Protocol (Start 2-3 days before vaccination unless otherwise noted)

The following supplements are suggested by some pet owners and holistic veterinarians to help prepare the dog for vaccination:

Important Considerations Before Vaccination:

• Ensure your dog is in optimal health on the day of vaccination.
• Discuss any existing health conditions with your veterinarian.
• Consider spacing rabies vaccines at least three weeks apart from other vaccines or parasite medications.

3. Post-Vaccination Supportive Protocol (Start immediately after vaccination)

The following supplements are suggested for use after vaccination to support recovery and detoxification:

General Detoxification Support:

• Fresh, Clean Water: Ensure proper hydration is essential for detoxification.
• Chlorella or Spirulina: Start with small amounts (e.g., ¼ tsp for medium dogs) and gradually increase, following product labels. Chlorella may bind heavy metals and support liver function. Typical chlorella dosage is around 50 mg per 25 lbs daily.
• Activated Charcoal: Generally 0.5-1g per 10lbs in acute situations only (not for long-term use). Use under veterinary supervision for acute toxin absorption.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fish oil at about 1000mg per 30lbs of body weight daily may support overall detoxification.

4. Important Cautions

• Always Consult Your Veterinarian: Discuss any supplements or remedies with your veterinarian before using them, especially for dogs with health conditions. They can provide guidance on appropriate dosages and potential interactions with other medications or health issues.
• Rabies Vaccination is Required By Law: Understand that rabies vaccines are legally required in most jurisdictions and are crucial for both human and animal public health.
• Anecdotal Reports: Be aware that many of these supportive remedies have limited scientific research specifically for vaccine reactions in dogs, and reports of benefits are largely anecdotal.
• Avoid Self-Diagnosis: If your dog shows any concerning symptoms after vaccination, contact your veterinarian immediately rather than trying to treat at home. Serious allergic reactions, though rare, can occur.

By providing this detailed protocol with a strong emphasis on veterinary consultation, you can offer your clients information that may help them feel more informed and proactive about their dog’s rabies vaccination while ensuring they prioritize their pet’s safety and comply with legal requirements. Remember to clearly state on your website and when sharing with clients that this information is based on available sources but should always be discussed with a veterinarian.

Need help with your pet?

Do you have health issues that you cannot resolve with conventional therapies? Are you looking for a natural approach to help your pet live a long healthy life?

This is possible, and what I do. My approach is to restore the immune system in dogs and cats so they can achieve homeostasis. That is the best protection against pathogens that can lead to diseases.