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IThis means that common diseases of the past, such as contagious parvovirus, could come back unnecessarily to claim the lives of our dogs again. Death rates due to parvovirus can reach 90% if they are not treated.
An outbreak last year was probably due to reduced immunity against a disease that is now uncommon in the UK, but still prevails in Eastern Europe where vaccination levels are lower.
So what is the reason for this decline in vaccination rates and how can we ensure that preventable diseases do not re-emerge?
A key factor is misinformation. Pet owners now have a wealth of online resources to learn more about animal health issues and treatments, but much of this can be misleading and not based on scientific evidence or information. researches
A growing minority of pet owners are wary of vaccination in general, which is similar to the anti-vaccination movement observed in parents.
The success of vaccines has meant that some diseases have become so rare that some people have begun to believe that veterinarians – and doctors – vaccinate excessively or unnecessarily. It is difficult to understand that without continued vigilance and vaccination, these diseases will reappear.
But just as we rely on doctors to treat our own health problems, pet owners should be encouraged to trust their veterinarians as the health authority.
The proliferation of so-called homeopathic treatments is linked to misinformation, some of which are promoted or sold online, but which offer no proven protection against diseases.
Pet owners can turn to such unscientific solutions if they are concerned about excessive vaccination or possible side effects, but their pets will still be vulnerable to completely preventable diseases.
In my own office, I avoid it by recommending vaccination against diseases that constitute a real risk. For dogs remaining in the UK where rabies is not prevalent, for example, it is much less necessary to vaccinate against this disease. As soon as there is a chance that the dog will go to Europe, I would definitely recommend an anti-rabies vaccine.
For pet owners who are still not convinced, it is possible to test the level of immunity with the help of a blood test and to determine whether a vaccine is needed or not. no. If there is no immunity, then a vaccine is the only way to protect against diseases.
Another factor in lowering vaccination rates is the cost, which some pet owners consider prohibitive.
But as for food, bedding and pet toys, the cost of health care should always be taken into account when deciding to adopt a pet. And compared to the cost of treating an illness, the price of a vaccine is an investment offering a high return on long-term health.
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