I have recently had two clients whose pups have had an adverse reaction to the Rabies vaccination. They were very concerned about what to do when it was time for another vaccination.
Hopefully three years form now there will be even more information, and Titers will be honored in every state. Until then here are some other options for pet parents who have dogs with immune issues, or have had a reaction. or are getting older and not able to handle the vaccines anymore.
Molly’s law passed last year, but not a lot of pet owners are aware of this law. If you Titer your pup and he or she is still covered than the restrictions should not apply.
AB 258 Molly’s Law will “exempt from the vaccination requirement a dog whose life would be endangered due to disease or other considerations that a veterinarian can verify and document if the dog received the vaccine, as determined by a licensed veterinarian on an annual basis. The bill would also require a dog that is exempt from the vaccination requirement to be confined to the premises of the owner, keeper, or harborer, and would require, if the dog is off the premises of the owner, keeper, or harborer, the dog to be on a leash not to exceed 6 feet in length and to be under the direct physical control of an adult.”
Older dogs especially do not do well with the vaccine, and odds are they have enough antibodies in their blood to never need the vaccine again. The results from the Rabies Challenge Fund should be coming out soon so hopefully if you do vaccinate it will only be every 5 to 7 years..
Below is information on the law and a form for your vet to sign. There is also some info on what the reactions can look like . Sometimes they do not show up until 6 months later so be an advocate for your pet and keep them happy and healthy.
http://www.examiner.com/article/molly-s-law-exempting-certain-dogs-from-rabies-vaccinations
http://www.thedogplace.org/VACCINES/Rabies-exemption-form-states-2012.asp