I have read everything about vaccinosis and puppies dying from shots, so I am wondering:
-What shots are absolutely necessary for my (9 week old) puppy?
-How often and at what ages should they be administered?
-What are the chances of my puppy having a fatal reaction to any
vaccination?

I've searched the archives for some plain answers, but no one seems to have the exact same, simple questions as me. I apologize in advance if this has been answered before, I'm new to this!

Any answers to one, some, or all of these questions will be greatly appreciated!

 Quote: Victoria Jones

-What shots are absolutely necessary for my (9 week old) puppy?

None - focus on proper nutrition and diet to support a healthy immune system.

 Quote: Victoria Jones

-How often and at what ages should they be administered?

Refer to answer # 1.

 Quote: Victoria Jones

-What are the chances of my puppy having a fatal reaction to any
vaccination?

Greater than the vets would lead you to believe, don't risk it.

And let's not forget that even if your puppy has no reaction now there may be serious health issues later on in life.

Victoria...you aren't going to get a simple answer to your questions. Some people do all the puppy shots, some do the least possible and some do none at all. Before I found this forum and all the good information here I probably would have vaccinated just like the vet told me to. I ended up doing rabies and 1 DHPPC. According to the vet my dog is not protected...yet my dog hangs out with me at an animal hospital and he hasn't gotten sick. Go figure

I've researched this further since posting, and the best, most minimal protocol I've found is:

Program A - Minimal Approach
Primary Immunization at 12 weeks or older:
- Canine parvovirus-2 (CPV-2)
- Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)
- Canine Adenovirus (CAV-2) and Rabies Virus
Revaccination:
Rabies - 1 year after primary, then once every 3 years.
Other vaccines would not be given again.

I assume since its not possible to find a consensus on vaccine protocol in puppies, that it's a partly personal choice based on research. I do not plan to give ANY yearly vaccines, and I have decided to give my puppy the parvo vaccine. Basically, I'm asking if this program is reasonable. Also, thanks to everyone who has already replied. =)

Well, now I've just re-read Ed's article on Vaccinosis, which includes a note from Dr. Jean Dodds, who recommends the parvo and distemper shots, which I had planned to give. Then again, in the section that includes emails from people about vaccinations, I heard a few people talk about their puppies getting sick or even dying after being given a parvo shot. The more research I do, the harder it is to make the decision. I am just lost and want to keep my puppy safe and healthy, but there is so much information pulling from either direction.

Just when you think you got all the answers, they change all the questions.

There is info pulling from both sides. Over vaccination is bad. Some vaccinations may not be bad. No vaccination could be good.

Damn, I don't make any sense after taking my Ambiens.

Richard, Ambien is for getting a good sleep ,perhaps that is what you should be doing, nighty night..

If a vaccination is given after 16 wks. of age it is likely good for the LIFE of the dog! Distemper has been proven to be good for up to 7 yrs. (and likley longer).

IF I vaccinate it is ONLY for parvo and distemper. I am not required to do rabies where I live but do it when the dogs are adults (usually 2 years of age) if I am planning on taking them across to the U.S.

From my perspective bordetella is a useless vaccine. Most pups/dogs get the virus from the vaccine. However, some boarding places require it. Out of all the vaccines it likley does the least damage. It also only lasts for approx. 4-6 months.

The rule of thumb is ALWAYS: the older the pup is for a vaccine the better. Vaccinate with single antigen vaccines as much as possible. This might mean it is more expensive if you choose to vaccinate for 'everything' (which I don't recommend). Single antigen vaccines (vaccinating for 'one' thing at a time instead of the all in one vaccine) is easier on the pup/dog. Vaccines should be given 4 wks. apart. They should also NEVER be given if the dog is not 100% healthy. They should not be in combination with anything else(spay surgery, when a dog is on antibiotics etc etc).

Don't be frightened into giving vaccines by your vet. There is always a risk when vaccinating a dog. AlWAYS. There is also a risk to not giving vaccines. You will have to decide one you reada the literature/information what is best for you pup/dog. I stopped giving vaccines over 10 yrs. ago. Never been sorry. Never had a problem. My dogs have titers to parvo and distemper in spite of them not been vaccinating for it. THus they have picked up thier own immunity through the environment. (naturally...which is a good way of getting it).

Excellent post Shelley!