Lyme disease vaccination

[Ingrid]

Just took my dog Socrates to his annual exam and vaccinations. I decided to also include the Lyme vaccination and the vet told me that a booster should be given in 3 weeks or so. Have you taken him back for the booster shot? Shouldn't it be enough with this shot? <U>Ingrid</U><i></i>

[Erin F]

This vaccination is very controversial in humans; there is evidence that the disease has actually been given to people through the vaccination. Also, once the vaccination (in humans & I presume in dogs) is given, it's no longer possible to test for Lyme disease if you suspect your dog has contracted it inspite of the vaccination (which is possible), as the vaccination itself causes a false positive. I know I won't be getting the vaccination for myself, but I have heard that people have to go for frequent boosters for their Lyme vaccination, so I assume that's what's going on with your dog, and that one isn't enough. Frankly, I would do alot more research on this vaccination and it's reliability in canines, if I were you. It isn't doing what's it's supposed to do for people, that's for sure. <i></i>

[Ingrid]

Good point, Erin! I'll do some more research regarding this issue. Thanks for your input! <U>Ingrid</U><i></i>

[Heidi]

I hope i am not intruding, but i found your question regarding lyme through a connection to the kitchen table forum. i work as a vet tech and have completed my Bachelors degree in animal science, so i felt i might be of some help. i hope you took Socrates back for his 3 week booster. it is necessary since the initial vaccine only starts the protection process and a second vaccine is necessary within 2-4 weeks to complete immunity. i hope you feel you can ask your veterinarian anything you do not understand. all the doctors i have worked for are always willing to answer any questions from owners. if your vet is not so accomodating i suggest you find a new one. Lyme disease is prevalent in the north eastern US, but cases have been reported in as many as 44 states. you should also check Socrates daily for any new ticks if you are in an area where he is exposed to them frequently. There is also a product called Frontline that has proven effective in guarding against ticks, although nothing is 100%, you should ask your vet if he carries it. My literature is not indicating whether or not a dog tests positive for lyme once it has had the vaccine. But it may be that there are ways to test for antibodies (which may be present due to actual infection or vaccine protection) or test for the disease causing organism itself (present only if the dog has actually been infected). Any way, i have rambled on long enough, and hopefully you did some research and know these things already. Hope i have been helpful. <i></i>

[Ingrid]

Hi Heidi! Thank you so much for your input! I really appreciate the time you took to answer my question! And yes, my dog Socrates got his second shot so I guess everything should be covered for a year or so. Luckily he is free of fleas and ticks! Whew! Thanks again for your reply and hope to see you again soon! Take care, Ingrid <U>Ingrid</U><i></i>