Titer Test

A blood test for Titer levels is available, and can now be done here in Australia. 

Titers are antibodies against pathogenic (disease causing) organisms, eg, the Distemper Virus or Parvovirus in dogs.  These antibodies circulate in the blood.  If a dog has 'Adequate' (in this case high enough) titers to a particular disease this demonstrates that the dog would fight off the infection if exposed to it. 

However, titer testing does have limitations in determining whether or not an individual is immune to a disease.  This is because a low titer level does not indicate a lack of immunity.  It is the memory cells that provide lasting immunity against infectious disease, and there are currently no tests to measure memory cells.  

If an immune dog is exposed to either the disease, or to viruses shed by a recently vaccinated dog, then its own titer levels will rise.  This is the normal function of a healthy immune system. 

More detailed information on Titers and Titer Testing can be reached through our Links page.

Homeopathic 'Vaccination'

Homeopathy is a complex specialty that a growing number of veterinarians are choosing to incorporate into their practices.  In Australia, many members of the Australian Association of Holistic Veterinarians are qualified to practice homeopathy.   

Some homeopaths and homeopathic veterinarians advocate nosodes as a preventative, ie as a 'vaccine'.  Other homeopathic practitioners insist that the correct use of nosodes is for disease prevention if there is an epidemic.  Those attracted to the possibility of using homeopathy for disease prevention are advised to seek information from a practitioner qualified to give it and then weigh the arguments for and against.