[Dailydrool] Vaccination Reactions

[Diane Surman]

Hi,
I have a Basset that will be 8 in Feb. that can not tolerate vaccinations, 
especially the combo distemper and parvo.  She first had the problem as a 
young puppy.  She became swollen every where after a few hours and had to be 
taken back to the vet.  She was given a shot of dexamethasone at the vet and 
sent home.  In her case, Benedryl wouldn't have helped her.  She no longer 
receives distemper/parvo shots.  We did a titer test on her about 2 years 
ago and she had full immunity to the diseases.  Here in PA she is required 
to have a rabies vaccination every 3 years.  We looked into getting her an 
exemption from the state but then that meant she had to be confined to our 
home.  Since she likes to walk every day and go places we didn't feel this 
was a good option.  Now before a rabies shot, my vet puts her on a low dose 
of prednisone 3 days prior to the rabies shot, and before he gives her the 
rabies vaccination, he gives her a shot of dexamethasone and allows it time 
to kick in. He then vaccinates her for rabies.  So far, this protocol has 
worked wonders and she has not had a problem.

Because she is allergic, I only allow the rabies every 3 years and don't 
ever give any kind of other vaccinations such as Lyme. I just feel she 
couldn't handle it.

Hope this is helpful.

Diane