Next2Kin

Questions to Ask Your Vet
By Jim Schwartz, Founder of Next-To-Kin, man of dog

1. Why are you suggesting annual rabies vaccinations?

2. What scientific evidence supports annual rabies vaccinations?

3. Does a Yorkshire Terrier get the same shot-the same dosage-as a Great Dane? Does one size fit all?

4. Is it true there is a three-year vaccination option?

5. If the 3-year option was available prior to vaccinating my companion animal and you did not inform me of this, how come?

6. Were you aware of the American Veterinary Medical Association's position that the companion- animal owner should be given the opportunity for informed consent relative to vaccination options (rabies, etc.)?

7. Is it true that the efficacy (life) of the rabies vaccination is 5-7 years?

8. What is the adverse-reaction impact of the rabies vaccination per 1,000 cats or dogs? Is it not true that adverse reactions are self- reported by the veterinarians? Might vets be economically disadvantaged by self-reporting actual numbers of adverse reactions to vaccinations, as such statistics might show unnecessary risks of annual vaccination shots?

9. Is it true that the vaccine manufacturers recommend that the vaccination should be given only to healthy animals?

10. Is it true that the cost of the rabies vaccine is 50 to 75 cents, at most, and that the cost to the companion- animal guardian for the shot is $15-$38, plus an additional $30-$35 for the office visit?

11. With just losing annual rabies vaccination of dogs and cats (not including distemper and parvo) and the accompanying shot-related office visits would your practice be profitable in the non-vaccination years?

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