Message Number: SG14440 | New FHL Archives Search
From: Ferrethealer@aol.com
Date: 2005-06-21 01:33:02 UTC
Subject: Re: [ferrethealth] Digest 20 Jun 2005 18:29:25 -0000 Issue 1033
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <90.602ef657.2fe8c84e@aol.com>

In a message dated 06/20/05 2:29:46 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
ferrethealth-digest-help@smartgroups.com writes:
So just as a precautionary measure, the vets decided to give her
the distemper (Fervac), in half doses, 1/2 in the am, then the other 1/2 4
hrs later.

This is not something that I am comfortable with at all. The doses of
vaccine are calibrated and proven to provide immunity. Although it is possible that
a smaller dose might provide immunity, it is not a certainty and I have seen
puppies that were given half doses by other vets come down with distemper.
Separating the dose like that, in my opinion, just gives the ferret two chances
to react.

It is much better to pretreat to prevent or reduce the reaction and give the
vaccine as directed.

I have seen ferrets react and then the next time they were vaccinated (with
pretreatment) be just fine, no reaction at all.

I would either go that route or if her exposure risk is low, wait for the
Purevax (and I'd likely pretreat with that one anyway).

Dr. Ruth
********************************************
Puppies kiss better than most people.