IMPORTANT: S0METHING TO THINK ABOUT !

The ideas expressed in the following article are those of the author and do not reflect an endorsement of MCSCWTC. We offer them in an effort to keep our members informed of the current trends in health and medicine in areas which may apply to our Wheatens. Before making any changes, you Should always check with your Veterinarian.

Veterinarians are changing their minds regarding booster vaccinations. I have been a firm believer of this practice for some time.

There is a consensus among veterinarians that after a dog has received a series of vaccinations when they're between the ages of 8 to 12 weeks and 12 to 17 months, an annual booster is not essential and may not be desirable. Some veterinarians are advocating a three year time period between boosters. There is a three-year rabies vaccination that is accepted here in Michigan. It is also advisable that one not give the rabies vaccination along with other shots but rather to Separate them by an interval of two to three months.

Wheatens have had adverse reactions to the lepto and lyme vaccinations. I do not use these vaccinations.

I have been following the above criteria for Several years now and have not had any problems with diseases.

I do use Heartworm preventative. However, instead of giving it monthly I give it every six weeks. 

I do not use any Flea preventative application and would advise against it.

This is an issue that each of you need to decided on or talk over with your own veterinarians. 


Submitted by: Carol Shaltz  From Tale Wagger's Fall/Winter - 1999 Issue