Titer testing for dogs
We believe it is important not to vaccinate your dog without careful consideration. We can make an informed choice in consultation with you. This enables us to provide tailor-made vaccinations. For this, it is necessary to perform a titer test.
What is a titer test?
A titer test is a blood test that measures the level of immune system proteins called antibodies. When your dog gets a vaccination, their immune system responds by producing antibodies, which the body can use to fight off future infections. The titer test determines how many antibodies are still in your dog’s blood after one or more years from the time of vaccination. In dogs it is only possible to measure this for the distempervirus, adenovirus and parvovirus. Fortunately, these are the viruses against which we vaccinate well in the Netherlands (and the rest of the world).
When to do a titer test?
Then, it is advised to repeat the test at 6 months of age, which can be done during the adolescent consultation. If we find that your dog is still not adequately protected against any of the tested diseases, an extra vaccination will be necessary to correct this.
Titering is also a good way to determine the level of protection against these diseases in adult dogs. A positive titer test result may lead to postponing the basic vaccinations at that time. Note that additional vaccinations, such as against kennel cough, are still recommended. If your dog has developed sufficient protection against the basic diseases in the blood, then it is justifiable to have the next check after 3 years (for healthy, adult dogs that received the basic vaccination less than 3 years ago) or after 1 year (for other dogs).
However, it is important to realize that measuring a sufficiently high titer (your dog is adequately protected) is a momentary measurement.
How does a titer test work?
To perform a titer test, it is necessary to take a small amount of blood from the dog. You can book an appointment for this at one of our clinics. We can perform the titer test at the clinic itself. You will receive the result of the test within 1 or 2 working days.
What is the cost for a titer test?
Would you like more information about the cost of a titer test? Please take a look at our rates.
