New Rabies Vaccine Guidelines From JAVMA

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

This was shared in my IBD support group today. What is of the most interest to me is that it seems to support the fact that our dogs retain immunity to rabies far longer than the recommended frequency of vaccinations would indicate.

https://www.avma.org/news/javmanews/pages/160301a.aspx?utm_source=j...

[F, Calla & Luca]

The dogs may well be immune for longer periods but laws will prevent lengthening vaccination periods for now. My town requires current rabies vaccinations for licensing, that is every three years.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

I know. In cases where there is a medical reason that the dog shouldn't be re-vaccinated, many municipalities will allow an exemption to the law if you present a letter from the vet stating that; that's why this was shared in the IBD, because some people thought that this study would help those who need an exemption. 

[AndySharon BoomerShaynaMariner]

New Jersey Department of Health has a "CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION FROM RABIES VACCINATION" that a vet can fill out if the vaccination is "medically contraindicated ....due to infirmity, other physical condition, or regimen of therapy."

Boomer's oncologist filled one out for him.  It is valid for one year.

[F, Calla & Luca]

Good to know, thankfully we don't need it.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Perhaps other states do also.

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Very interesting, Karen.  Murphy's annual check-up and vaccinations are coming up next month.  I have started thinking about the implications of the IBD. 

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Jack's rabies shot was due a month or two after his IBD diagnosis, and my vet advised me to postpone it. Of course, I think that was due to the fact that he was still on a fairly hefty dose of prednisone at the time.