If you are getting a rescue Rottweiler, this dog will already have his vaccinations. However, there is always the question of revaccination, checking for immunity (titers), vaccinations specific for your area and frequency. Sometimes the information can be overwhelming. One vaccination you can always count on your dog needing is the rabies vaccine. Be sure to check in your area for the laws regarding this vaccination and the frequency it needs to be given. Most often communities will designate a three year or a one year requirement.

Rabies is what is called a 'killed vaccine', so it needs to be boostered (repeated) to be effective. Vaccines for bacteria disease (such as Leptospirosis) also need to be repeated.

The newer vaccines, such as those for Parvo and distemper are called Modified Live. These do not need boosters to continue to work effectively, but are often repeated in puppies as they may not always 'take', if the puppy is still protected from mother's immunity (through nursing) or their immune system is suppressed.

Other vaccinations are for Kennel Cough, Hepatitis, parainfluenza, Lymes Disease and Corona. Please check with your Veterinarian if there is a need for these, or others that may be necessary in your area. Always know the risks and incidence of these where you live.

For further information, check these sources. Please note these sources contain a variety of opinions, information and research, educate yourself and also rely on the guidance of your Veterinarian.

Dog Owners Guide: Annual Vaccinations, also good discussion on how vaccinations work: http://www.canismajor.com/dog/vacci01.html


Vaccination Protocols for Canines by Risk of the Disease (Parvo, Distemper, Lymes and more): http://www.dvmvac.com/CProtRsk.html

Discussion with Veterinarians on Vaccination Protocols: http://www.dvmnewsmagazine.com/dvm/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=46546


Vaccination Protocols for Dogs prone to adverse reactions: http://www.dogsadversereactions.com/ChangingVaccineProtocols.html

Titer Testing, to test the dog's immunity for need for vaccination:
http://www.canine-epilepsy-guardian-angels.com/titer_test.htm

Some alternative thoughts (with references) on Puppy Vaccinations:
http://www.caberfeidh.com/PuppyVax.htm

More thoughts on Revaccination with references:
http://www.caberfeidh.com/Revax.htm

Information on Leptospirosis, symptoms, treatment and more: http://b-naturals.com/Feb2005.php

An interesting website with many references, discussing risks, protocols and research information: http://www.critteradvocacy.org/

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