RWDVM
12-03-2003, 12:28 AM
I came across a veterinary jouranl article, whose author wrote of a potential dangerous condition that may be associated with the 6 month heartworm vaccine. There have been incidents of immune mediated thrombocytopenia (ITP) associated with the administration of the 6 month heartworm vaccine. ITP is a condition where the body's own immune system targets its own platelets for destruction and removal. Platelets are very small blood cells that form the intial clot that plugs any broken vessel to stop bleeding. Without them, the dog is very susceptable to severe bleeding from the mildest of injuries.
WHile the link has not yet been conclusively established, I still recommend not using this vaccine. I have not personally used the vaccine on my patients. It is my policy when something first comes out to wait and see how other veterinarians' patients fair with it. Looks like it may have paid off in this case.
My favorite heartworm prducts are heartguard or interceptor. While these products are time proven to be very safe, never use them without the guidance of a vet.
Wishing good health to all your dogs!
Roger L. Welton, DVM
Veterinarian, Webmaster http://www.askdvm.com
WHile the link has not yet been conclusively established, I still recommend not using this vaccine. I have not personally used the vaccine on my patients. It is my policy when something first comes out to wait and see how other veterinarians' patients fair with it. Looks like it may have paid off in this case.
My favorite heartworm prducts are heartguard or interceptor. While these products are time proven to be very safe, never use them without the guidance of a vet.
Wishing good health to all your dogs!
Roger L. Welton, DVM
Veterinarian, Webmaster http://www.askdvm.com