PO Box 98, 18620 Darnestown Rd.,

 Beallsville, MD  20839

301-972-7010; fax 301-349-2181

V  A  C  C  I  N  E   
U  P  D  A  T  E  S

As of April 1, 2006, the Peachtree Veterinary Clinic has changed its recommendations regarding our vaccine protocols to comply with the 2006 American Animal Hospital Association canine vaccine guidelines.  The feline vaccine guidelines are also soon to be published.  The link to the AAHA study is www.aahanet.org/About_aaha/About_Guidelines_Canine06.html.

In short, our new recommendation is that all adult dogs will receive a distemper vaccine (distemper/parvovirus/adenovirus type 2) every three years rather than annually, assuming that they have completed a full puppy series and have had a yearly booster at or around 16 months of age.  This also applies to dogs with an unknown history who have received several distemper vaccines throughout their life.  Rabies vaccines are still required by state law to be given every three years.  Both of these vaccines are considered core vaccines for all dogs.

Non-core vaccines such as Leptospirosis, Lyme and Bordetella (kennel cough) will be tailored to the individual needs of each dog as well as the doctor's recommendation.  All three of these non-core vaccines are given annually.

Please remember that an annual physical exam is the best way to ensure your pet's health and well-being, which is our main concern.  Finally, please bear with us as we update our new reminder system.  If there is ever any question regarding your pet's health or vaccine status, do not hesitate to call us at 301-972-7010.