Titer Testing – a Useful or Dubious Co-relation with Dog Vaccines
One of the newer points of debate is titer (or Titre) testing. A titer is simple to explain. It is a measure of the amount of antibody in an animal’s blood system. For example, a parvovirus titer indicates the amount of antibodies that are or may be directed against parvovirus. Simply put, if the titer rates are high, there are lots of antibodies present in the blood. If the titer amounts are low, there are few antibodies.
A titer test is a simple procedure. You can find out the results in 15 minutes if your vet has the right kit. You do not need to subject your dog to any pain. You go to the vets. Your vet draws a blood sample. He or she tests the blood sample for the titer amount. You receive the results. Depending upon the amounts of antibodies in your dog’s system, your position and the ideology of your vet, you can then accept or refuse a vaccination.
Some see a titer test as a means of checking the immunization status of a stray dog or one with an unknown vaccination history. Others believe titer tests to be a preventive measure. They view it as a way of preventing the over vaccination of their dog. Some owners use it to decide whether they need to repeat their pet’s vaccinations.
Controversy swirls around titer testing. Traditional and rebellious veterinarians square off. They stand at opposite ends of the pole. While traditionalist pet care providers point out the success of vaccinations at eradicating the problem of rabies, parvovirus and other epidemics, those of the new school adopt a different stance. They point to the research of a Swedish study. It found that at least 83% of the tested canines still were immune to distemper some 4 years after their vaccination. Proponents of the titer tests use this to indicate how people and veterinarians over vaccinate their dogs. They also point out how the standards of when people take their dogs in for shots depend upon manufacturer and not independent scientific research.
Some anti-vaccinationists go further. They see over-vaccination as being a contributive factor in dog health problems. They see vaccinations as being part of the dynamics behind chronic illnesses. These include allergies, cancer and seizures.
The controversy on titer testing considers the following points:
• Are titers actually valid measures of the protective properties of the immune system?
• What level of the antibody constitutes protection from the disease?
• When should you have your vet perform a titer test?
• How often should your vet undertake such a test?
• Does one positive titer test result mean it is okay for life? How long a period are we considering?
For now, there is no definitive answer to any of the questions. Further research into the issues of titer testing, the presence and amount of antibody testing, the effect of vaccinations and other related aspects require more research. Whatever stance you decide to take do remember two things. You must be doing so for the welfare of your dog. You also have to know the law. Be sure this method is acceptable as legitimate in your part of your country. Be also aware, this may not wash at dog shows or with the officials when you decide to travel with your dog.
Information written by Lenny Swantek
