Titer Testing FAQ What is a titer test? A titer test is a blood test that measures the amount of antibodies present in an animal’s body. If the titer test measures positive for core cat and/or dog vaccines, this means your pet is protected from core vaccine infections. The major benefits of titer testing are proving that your puppy/kitten is protected from core vaccine diseases, and avoiding adult dog/cat over vaccination and their potential side effects. How does VacciCheck work? It involves taking a blood sample from your pet. Veterinarians can perform this quick and simple VacciCheck test in their clinic. Canine and Feline VacciCheck determines if a dog or cat has antibodies as a result of core vaccination in their blood, or if they require additional vaccination. How are the test results interpreted? Any positive VacciCheck result indicates that your pet is protected against core infectious diseases. How often should I titer test with VacciCheck? Professor Ronald Schultz explains the answer to this question simply: “Neither a titer nor annual vaccination is necessary every year because of the core vaccines’ duration of immunity. However, a blood sample taken yearly from an animal for a titer check is preferential to an unnecessary vaccination as a vaccine may cause harm. Medically, however, I don’t know of any harm that might come from taking a blood sample and doing a titer check. Also, there are many practitioners and owners who need assurance that an animal does have immunity. An antibody test such as the VacciCheck can give them that assurance.” How often should my geriatric pet be titer tested? The WSAVA guidelines suggest that “titer testing should be performed annually as a precautionary measure for geriatric dogs (over 10 years old).” How does proof of titer testing affect your pet’s acceptance at groomers or kennel clubs? Groomers and kennel clubs must consider the health and wellbeing of all their pets. As such, they often demand proof of vaccination before accepting your pet for treatment or a stay. A signed letter from the vet, confirming that your pet has been titer tested and is fully protected, may very well provide them with the proof they need to accept your pet with open arms. What are the requirements for Rabies Vaccinations? The AAHA Guidelines in the USA, states the following: “Get a rabies vaccine for your dog—it’s the law. Rabies is a fatal—and preventable—disease that can be spread to humans by contact with saliva, so it’s mandatory in all 50 US states. Your veterinarian is bound by law to give your dog a rabies vaccine to protect you as well as your pet; if an unvaccinated dog is scratched or bitten by a wild animal, it can lead to your pet being quarantined or euthanized. Learn the specifics about the rabies laws in your state at rabiesaware.org.” How can my pet be titer tested with VacciCheck? Vets and vet labs are the only persons and organizations allowed to purchase and use VacciCheck, to ensure the titer test is correctly performed and interpreted. How much will a VacciCheck titer test cost me? In general a veterinarian using VacciCheck in his clinic will be able to offer you a reasonable price, not significantly higher than the cost of revaccination.
