This question came up on Twitter: ” Why does my 5 pound chihuahu get the same dose of a vaccine as my 50 pound Lab / Collie cross? “

Vaccine dose

This question was asked after I wrote about the difference between 1 and 3 year rabies vaccinations and it is a big question. Most vaccines are 1ml (milliliter) and are given through a subcutaneous (SQ or subcutaneous) or intramuscular (IM) syringe. The most notable exception would be the nasal cough vaccine for whooping cough , which is administered via a mild type of plastic applicator into the nostrils.

Vaccines are given to puppies and kittens after 6 weeks of age and adult dogs and cats of all sizes. Rabies is given later, usually between 4 and 6 months of age for dogs and cats.

Why is the dosage the same for all dog and cat sizes?

Medications that are heavily dosed, such as antibiotics, must reach an effective level in the blood and tissues to perform their function. In this case, to fight the infection. The larger the animal, the more area covered.

Vaccines are used to stimulate the animal’s immune system , which is not something measured by weight. At least not between a small dog and a large dog. According to a source on VIN.com 1 , larger animals receive higher doses.

  • To refer:
  • dogs and cats – 1 ml
  • horses and cattle – 2 ml
  • elephants – 2 to 4 ml

Do smaller animals have more vaccine reactions?

Any animal can have a reaction to a vaccine. For very small animals or small body weight, it may be a good idea to distribute vaccines to allow the body’s immune system not to be overwhelmed with increased response.

For example, give the cold vaccination, wait 1 to 2 weeks, then give the rabies vaccination. Note: Normal dog and kitten vaccination schedules are usually given at intervals of 3 to 4 weeks until the age of 16 to 18 weeks. Please talk to your veterinarian about animal vaccination protocols.

My breeder gave a half vaccine to my dog ​​because it is so small. Is that okay?

In a word, no. The protection offered by the vaccine is now a question mark. The vaccine manufacturer will not ‘guarantee’ the level of protection of a vaccine that has not been administered according to established guidelines.

Please see the “Suggested Reading” and additional links below for more information about vaccines and pets.

Reference: VIN.com 1 is a subscription source for veterinarians.

Please note: this article is for informational purposes only. If your pet shows any signs of illness, please consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.