Titer Testing

TITER TESTING

With the concerns of over vaccination in our pet dogs, you may have questions about titer testing. Here are some of our thoughts on the subject.

What is titer testing? A titer test (pronounced TIGHT er) is a laboratory test measuring the existence and level of antibodies to disease in blood. Antibodies are produced when an antigen (like a virus or bacteria) provokes a response from the immune system. This response can come from natural exposure or from vaccination. (Note: titering is also called serum vaccine antibody titering and serologic vaccine titering.)

How is the test performed? First, a sample of blood is drawn from your pet and sent off to a veterinary laboratory. The sample is then diluted. Titer levels, expressed as ratios, indicate how many times blood can be diluted before no antibodies are detected. If blood can be diluted a 1000 times and still show antibodies, the ratio would be 1:1000. This is a “strong” titer. A titer of 1:2 would be weak.

Should I test for all diseases? The most recommended test examines antibodies for both parvovirus, hepatitis (adenovirus) and distemper, the  most important viruses. At Tails-A-Wagging, we also require Bordetella to that test would be added as well if your dog attends day care, doggie socials or classes with us. Rabies titers are not often done in our area as Washington State has a law requiring vaccination of dogs, cats and ferrets, but the titer test can be done.

http://www.whatcomhumane.org/index.php?news_display,147

Why test? The parvovirus/distemper test can help you or others (vets, groomers, kennel owners, etc.) determine if your dog requires additional vaccination, and may save your dog unnecessary vaccines. It is especially useful when making a decision about vaccinating an animal with unknown vaccination history, or for determining if puppies have received immunity from vaccination (more below).

Most experts believe strong titers are a more reliable indication of immunity than vaccination: tests show the actual immune response, not just the attempt to cause an immune response by vaccination. Do not expect, however, that everyone will accept test results in place of proof of vaccination. The subject of immunity is complicated and should be discussed with your veterinarian.

How often should I test titers for parvo and distemper? We require Distemper/parvo titer testing once per year and Bordetella once eery 6 months. this can be expensive and some clients do titer testing for Distemper/Parvo and simply get their dog vaccinated for Rabies and Bordetella.

Does a weak titer mean that the dog needs a “booster” shot? Maybe not for dogs that have previously shown strong titers. But it would be required for attending Tails-A-Wagging.

Should I test my puppy? Yes! If so, when? Ideally, puppies should have had their last vaccination after 16 weeks of age then should be tested to see if further vaccination is necessary. There’s an excellent discussion about testing puppies in the 2006 American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Canine Vaccine Task Force entitled What Are The Possible Applications of Serologic Testing? It reads, “Such titer testing is the only way to ensure that a puppy has developed an immune response after vaccinating.”

Also, since at Tails-A-Wagging we do not accept breeder or owner given vaccines, it may be suggested that your pup get a titer test to show immunity to take a class or begin day care, until the next vaccine (administered by a veterinarian) is given to your pup.

What do titer tests cost? Testing costs vary widely from practice to practice, so shop around. Some vets do in-house testing. Others use outside labs. Some mark up tests and services a little; others, a lot. You should be able to have parvo/distemper tests done most places for less than $100. Rabies tests, on the other hand, can cost considerably more, in large part because they are sent overnight to a lab.

Should I test for rabies antibodies? The rabies titer test will give you an indication of your dog’s immunity if he or she is at particular risk for contracting rabies. It may also be required prior to international travel. Test results will NOT be accepted by Animal Control and most others as a substitute for vaccination of healthy dogs as required by law.

If your dog has documented health problems or documented adverse reactions to shots, your vet may be able to get your dog an exemption to rabies vaccination. A rabies titer test is not usually necessary when requesting an exemption but may be useful when re-applying for a denied exemption. It may also give you and others piece of mind if you’re contemplating an exemption.

Can I test titers immediately after vaccinating? To get an accurate test, you must wait at least 14 days after vaccination before testing.

　
 
Also, remember that since titer testing only checks the current level of immunity in your dog and your dogs immune response can be altered by illness or disease (infection, internal parasites etc) expect that if you dog becomes ill for any reason, you will be required to have titer testing done again, for Tails-A-Wagging requirements.

HELP! My Puppy Is out of his MIND!

Hi Tails,

I KNOW you can help... as you are aware we got a puppy last week.  We start classes with you soon,  but until then,  we need some help.  Just like everyone, we are a busy family and we are committed to this pup,  but is there something we can do to help him not be so CRAZY!  We love him so much, but OMG... can puppies have ADD?  HELP!

The Wyss Family



Dear Wyss Family,
What if I said "YES" there is one thing you can do that will immediately help puppy be more attentive,  more focused, more aware of you and the family overall...AND its free.  Now I have your attention! Its hand feeding.  Yes,  one kibble at a time, hand feeding can help puppy with

• Having a soft mouth
• Teach puppy that hands coming towards their face is a good thing
• Impulse Control
• Basic Manners
• Bite Inhibition
• Attention to the family
• Love of strangers
• and so much more!

Put all of puppies food that he is to eat in a container in the morning.  One piece at a time give pup a kibble for some basic cues (coming to you, sitting on cue, laying down etc)  nothing too difficult.  Everyone in the family can do a little here and a little there,  so the responsibility is spread out.  Going to get the mail? Take puppy on leash and ask the neighbor to give a few, one at a time.  Going to his veterinary appointment? Ask the staff to give a few, one at time.  Puppy learns nothing in life is free and that people are the givers of all great things!  Very powerful lesson for a pup.

Start right away,  and continue for at least one week...many people do it for a much longer time as it can help with the bond between the two of you.

Also, be sure to read our BEFORE You Get Your Puppy Book on our web site
http://www.tails-a-wagging.com/sites/default/files/BEFORE%20You%20Get%20Your%20Puppy_0.pdf

Remember, we are always here for you and puppy. See you all soon in class!
Tails-A-Wagging Team