From:
ferrethealer@aol.com
Date: 2007-08-01 17:46:46 UTC
Subject: Distemper (booster vs titers) Re: [ferrethealth] Digest Number 862
To: ferrethealth@yahoogroups.com
In a message dated 08/01/07 5:56:19 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
ferrethealth@yahoogroups.com writes:
But as distemper is a virus that can live in the soil and I DO travel
to areas populated by dogs of unknown innoculations - would it be
worth the risk to get these old geezers vaccinated again?
I worry about creating hypersensitivities or immune system upsets,
but I wonder about bringing something home to them too. I do change
my barn workboots to driving shoes before getting in my truck, but
still - the driving shoes tread across the same ground the boots walk
upon.
What are your thoughts?
**You're right to worry - it's been three years since their distemper vaccine
and four years since their rabies vaccine (and whether it was listed as a
three year rabies shot or not, the law only recognizes a one year rabies in
ferrets). Legally, I have to recomend that the rabies be boosted asap.
Distemper is another issue, and in the situation you're in, my first thought
would be to have a titer done to see if they have a high level of antibody
against CDV in their bloodstream. If they do, they are likely well-protected.
If they do not, I would booster them. Note that the titer level conferring
immunity has not been established in ferrets yet ( we're working on it, folks!,
slowly, but surely, we'll get there), and if you choose to not vaccinate based
on a titer level, it is no guarantee that they are protected.
Personally, I feel that a ferret with a good titer level is almost certainly
protected and is in fact most likely to have a reaction if boosters are given,
so that's how I'm proceeding with my own. It's a personal choice for me -
discuss it with your veterinarian.**
Dr. Ruth
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