Vaccination for the Holistically Minded
Vaccination plays a key role in disease prevention in companion animals. However, concerns around over-vaccination and adverse reactions have led some pet owners, particularly those focused on holistic health, to seek a more measured approach. With current diagnostic tools and region-specific risk assessments, it is possible to make evidence-based decisions that reduce unnecessary interventions while maintaining protection.
Understanding Adverse Reactions
Immediate adverse vaccine reactions are uncommon but can occur. These reactions are more likely in animals with a genetic predisposition to immune dysregulation or a prior history of sensitivity. In such cases, the vaccine acts as a triggering factor, not a primary cause.
Aside from immediate reactions, there can be a cumulative effect of the adjuvants over time. The components used to stimulate the immune system can have a toxic effect over time, accumulating in the body and impacting the kidneys, brain and other organs. Some even believe there is a link to routine vaccination and cancer.
Assessing Immunity Before Re-Vaccinating
Antibody titre testing allows for assessment of immune memory from prior vaccination or exposure to disease. These tests measure circulating antibodies to determine if an animal remains protected. In many cases, antibody levels remain stable for several years, especially after initial core vaccinations.
Titre testing can help reduce over-vaccination by confirming that a booster is unnecessary. While titres are not a direct measure of complete immunity, they are widely accepted as a surrogate marker for core viral diseases such as:
Canine parvovirus
Canine distemper
Canine adenovirus
Feline panleukopenia
Feline herpesvirus
Feline calicivirus
Lifestyle-Based Risk Assessment
Vaccination protocols should reflect an individual animal’s risk of exposure. For example:
Indoor-only cats with no exposure to other animals have minimal risk of contracting feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).
Dogs living in tick-endemic regions may benefit from leptospirosis or Lyme disease vaccination, while these may not be relevant in other regions.
Regional Requirements and Legal Mandates
Certain vaccines are mandated by law. Rabies vaccination is legally required in many jurisdictions regardless of exposure risk. Other vaccines are strongly recommended based on geographic disease prevalence. It is essential to work with a veterinarian familiar with your region to determine which vaccines are essential, optional, or unnecessary.
Reducing Vaccine Burden
When vaccination is indicated, select formulations designed to minimise immune disruption. Options include:
Non-adjuvanted vaccines (especially for cats, due to the link between adjuvants and vaccine-associated sarcomas)
Thimerosal-free formulations (avoiding mercury-containing preservatives)
Monovalent vaccines when appropriate
Some vaccine types—such as the non-adjuvanted rabies vaccine for cats available in the United States—may offer a reduced risk profile. These choices should be discussed with a veterinarian, as availability and licensing vary by country and species.
Managing Animals with Previous Reactions
In animals with a known vaccine reaction, re-vaccination should be avoided where possible. Alternative strategies include:
Using titre testing to confirm immunity
Exemptions from legal vaccination with veterinary documentation
Risk minimisation through controlled lifestyle (e.g., indoor living, avoidance of boarding or daycare environments)
Optional Adjuncts in Holistic Practice
Some pet guardians choose to use homeopathic preparations before and after vaccination. Products such as Thuja occidentalis and Lyssin are often recommended by homeopathic practitioners to support immune regulation. While there is no scientific evidence confirming the efficacy of these remedies in preventing adverse events, their use is common in integrative veterinary contexts. Consultation with a qualified homeopathic or integrative veterinary practitioner is recommended for those choosing this approach.
Conclusion
A middle-ground approach to vaccination is both scientifically supported and aligned with holistic principles. By evaluating individual risk, measuring immune status, and selecting lower-reactivity vaccine options, guardians can reduce unnecessary exposure while maintaining adequate protection against serious disease. Collaboration with a veterinarian or holistic professional can help ensure optimal health outcomes.
Want to learn more about this topic? Listen to Dr Gregory Wright’s opinion on vaccination.
Reference
Moore, G. E., et al. (2005, USA). Adverse events diagnosed within three days of vaccine administration in dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 227(7).
🔗 https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.2005.227.1102