What if I told you your dog could develop immunity to serious diseases… without ever being vaccinated? 💁‍♀️

I know that sounds a little wild… but stay with me, because this story might just change the way you see things.

Dr. Laurie Coger, a brilliant integrative vet, once had two Australian Shepherd puppies who weren’t vaccinated. These pups spent their days at her friend’s doggy daycare, surrounded by other puppies and dogs who had been vaccinated.

At 6 months old, Dr. Laurie ran titer tests to check the puppies’ immunity levels.

The result? Both puppies had measurable immunity to distemper and parvo, just from being around vaccinated dogs who were shedding the vaccine virus.

(Yes, vaccine shedding is a real thing.)

Now, this doesn’t mean you should skip vaccines altogether. But it does remind us that immunity isn’t always as straightforward as we’ve been told.

And here’s something even more important: giving a vaccine does not automatically mean your pet is immunized.

I know the world of vaccines can feel seriously confusing, and you just want to do what’s best for your pet.

That’s why I want to make this simple and clear for you 👀

What Every Pet Parent Should Know About Vaccines

Vaccination ≠ Immunization

Getting a vaccine is one thing. But what really matters is whether your pet’s body develops immunity. The only way to know is through titer testing, which measures antibody levels.

After your puppy or kitten finishes their vaccine series, a titer test can help you avoid unnecessary boosters and give you peace of mind that your pet is truly protected. You can get titer tests for all vaccines including the rabies vaccine.

One-Size-Fits-All Protocols Can Be Harmful

Standard vaccine schedules are designed to protect the most vulnerable pets.

That sounds good in theory, but in practice, it can mean over-vaccination for healthy animals, or a tiny Chihuahua puppy getting the same dose as a full grown Great Dane just because it’s “standard protocol”.

Too many vaccines or too much of a vaccine can put extra stress on your pet’s body. In some cases, it can even trigger adverse reactions, including autoimmune diseases.

Not All Vaccines (Or Tick and Flea Meds or Heartworm Meds) Are Necessary

So instead of following a schedule blindly, here are some questions to bring to your vet:

What diseases is my pet truly at risk for, given where we live, what season it is, and our lifestyle?

And if your vet isn’t open to these conversations, it’s okay to find one who is, even through telehealth.

Modified Live Vaccines Can Shed Viruses

Some vaccines, like distemper, are “modified live.” This means your pet may shed the vaccine virus afterward, which can affect other animals, even wildlife.

In fact, in rural areas of China, pandas contracted distemper from vaccinated dogs, which is devastating to this vulnerable species.

If your pet receives a modified live vaccine, consider keeping them indoors away from other animals for a couple of weeks to prevent unintended damage.

Build Immunity Naturally

Your pet’s strongest shield will always be their own immune system and a healthy microbiome. A varied, fresh food diet, and avoiding unnecessary antibiotics or drugs all strengthen resilience.

And here’s a pro tip I learned from integrative vet and medicinal mushroom expert Dr. Rob Silver: giving the Real Mushrooms 5 Defender Blend for a couple of weeks before titer testing can boost your pet’s immunity. This may reduce the chance they’ll need additional vaccines. You can ask for the correct dosages for your pet on the “Real Mushrooms Insiders” Facebook Group.

Ask for Preservative-Free Vaccines

Not all vaccines are created the same. Preservative-free options can be gentler on your pet’s system. You can also ask about heavy-metal-free vaccines, since unfortunately, most contain heavy metals.

Detox After Vaccination

Vaccines can be hard on your pet’s body, so supporting detox afterward is important. That’s a whole conversation in itself, but keep it in mind as part of your pet’s wellness plan. And you can always book an in-person or telehealth appointment with us to come up with a personalized plan for your pet.

(If you’re an existing client, just email us at info@integrativepet.com to set up your appointment.)

Choose a Less Risky Vaccination Site

In rare cases, pets can develop cancer at the vaccine site. That’s why some vets recommend vaccinating in the tail, which can be amputated if needed. This can be a safer option than vaccinating in the shoulder or leg.

❓ Questions to Ask Your Vet Before Vaccinating

✨ What diseases is my pet truly at risk for in my region, in this season, and with our lifestyle?

✨ Is a titer test an option before vaccinating again? (Hint: it always should be.)

✨ What are the potential risks of this vaccine for my pet, given their size, health, and breed?

✨What alternatives exist to build resilience if vaccines are optional?

✨How can we individualize, instead of standardize, my pet’s care plan?

And here’s a reminder that vaccines are a big deal, and they can affect your puppy or kitten for life, and you deserve a vet who supports you 💖

If your vet isn’t willing to discuss options like titer testing or customizing a vaccine schedule, it’s okay to find one who is.

Vaccines are not one-size-fits-all. And the good news? You don’t have to figure this out alone.

To healthier, happier pets,

💖Dr. Lily

P.P.S. If you found this blog fascinating, then you’ll love our episode with Dr. Laurie Coger, where we dive deep into the hidden risks of vaccines, flea & tick meds, and heartworm prevention on the *My Dog Is Better Than Your Dog* Podcast. Go have a listen! 🎧💜👇

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Listen on Spotify