Along with "house breaking" part of raising a puppy is making sure they get their "shots".
We people often believe vaccines make our pets (and us) completely immune to specific diseases.
True or false?
Some of both. In reality it's complicated... and not precise.
How Do Vaccines Work?
Pets (and humans) have an immune system. It's function is to defend against invaders. It's a survival mechanism. Without one your pet would quickly be overwhelmed by diseases that would ultimately kill it.
The purpose of vaccines essentially is to "teach" the immune system to defend your dog against specific germs.
Vaccines contain "antigens" - foreign invaders. When the immune system detects invaders, it responds by producing "antibodies". Antibodies attach to the foreign invaders making them inactive.
Vaccines use a small enough amount of antigen to illicit a defensive response but not overwhelm the immune system. This process forms a "memory" in the immune system that allows it to quickly recognize that germ in the future by mounting a strong defense. The ability to defend against a particular antigen is consider "immunity".
The Downside of Vaccinations
This process is neither precise or individualized.
You give the puppy a dose - all be it a small dose - of a virus. Maybe he can defend against it, maybe he can't.
Next, vaccines can contain "adjuvants". Adjuvants are foreign proteins that stimulate a general immune response. Adjuvants are used as "insurance" - if there isn't a strong enough specific immune response to defend against the vaccine, a general immune response may be enough.
Next, preservatives such as thimerosol (very high in mercury) and aluminum are used. These are carcinogens.
Last, vaccines tend to come in "cocktails"... multiple vaccines in one dose. With multiple antigens hitting it at one time, the immune system can become overwhelmed and confused.
Decrease vaccination risks by:
- Don't vaccinate a puppy when their immune system is compromised which is the case if they are sick or having surgery (such as spay/neutering).
- Don't vaccinate if they're receiving pharmaceuticals especially steroids
- Minimize the number of vaccines at one time.
- Only vaccinate against diseases your dog is at risk for.
- Decrease stress before and after vaccination.
- Maintain good nutrition.
Learn the history of vaccination for dogs and cats, the risks, the current science and recommendations from leading Vets at DogAndCatZone.com Get the best information to make the wisest care choices for your companion.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patti_Clark
No comments:
Post a Comment