Eastern Suburbs Dog Training Club

Previously I had believed that vaccinations for older dogs (8-10 years or more) was not necessary as the vaccine would give them permanent immunity having been previously been annually vaccinated for all their lives. My own recent personal experience now tells me otherwise.

My vet had determined that because of health issues with my two dogs, that they would not automatically be vaccinated every year.  Instead they would have a titre test to check their antibody levels.  As well as the titre test they would also have the kennel cough vaccination, now administered through the nose (Bronchi-shield 3 Intranasal).    

A titre test, for those that don’t know, is a sample of blood taken and examined by pathologists to determine if the antibodies in the dog’s system are at an appropriate level to maintain protection.  The test is taken on an annual basis instead of vaccination. 

Both dogs were titre tested in 2008 and found to have appropriate levels of antibodies and did not require vaccination.  They did have the kennel cough vaccine and my vet issued an advice for presentation to the Club regarding vaccination requirements to renew my membership.  Such advice of appropriate vaccination cover is required both by the Club, so I can bring my dogs onto the training grounds on Sundays, and Dogs NSW, so they can attend trials and shows. 

Earlier this year I took them both for their annual titre test.  I was quite surprised when my vet contacted me to advise that my older dog’s antibodies levels were low and he needed to be revaccinated.  My vet confirmed that the most vulnerable to a lowering in antibodies are the very young (puppies/young dogs up to 3 years) and older dogs.

My older dog turns 14 this coming September.  He comes everywhere with me so of course I took him for his revaccination.  

A titre test is an optional alternative to actual vaccination.  Keep in mind however that these tests are more costly than vaccination and that kennel cough vaccine will also need to be administered.

As a responsible dog owner you must ensure that if you choose not to vaccinate each year that you must titre test instead and ensure kennel cough vaccine is part of your annual check up.  Such a decision should only be made in consultation with your vet.

Liz Gallagher, Instructor, July 2009