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Originally Posted by Cirlonde  I didn't respond on the poll because I don't really have an answer...Chloe's due for her first year booster in August, so I haven't had to think about what we'll do in the future yet. We've moved, so I'll be taking her to a new vet so I know I won't be as comfortable as I was with our previous vet. Most of the vaccinations I'm fine with not doing and I feel like it's a valid argument. But we've already found two deer ticks on Chloe this summer so I definitely want to make sure the Lyme's vaccination stays up to date. I had Lyme's disease as a child so I have a healthy respect for it and don't ever want to have to deal with it again!!
As for Ellie Mae's original question, I'm hesitant to approach any vet about not doing annual vaccinations because I don't handle controversial situations very well. My blood pressure sky rockets and I get all flushed and nervous. I worry that I'll offend the vet if he thinks I'm questioning his knowledge. Also, I am young (25) and look younger so I tend to be easily intimidated by people older than me. I can't stand to be made to feel ignorant so I just avoid issues like this; in this case, probably by just not going to the vet as often which isn't a good solution either. Guess I'll just go in armed with documentation and a prepared speech and hope for an understanding vet!
-C |
I understand your situation but I think you should know that most vets are more likely to listen to your arguments when they know you are the kind that come in frequently. Mine get exams yearly, bloodwork, and go to the vet anytime any issue arises... maybe they go too frequently... so my vet knows that my failure to vaccinate is an educated choice and not an excuse to save money and not come in. So you may be making it worse for yourself by not going in.
Also dont be intimidated or scared to stand your ground... I am only 24, I got my oldest Yorkie when I was 21, my cat when I was 18... and I have always stood up for what I believed in with them and I have never had a vet react to my age in a negative way at all. As soon as I come in and start talking to them and they realize that I know what I am talking about, they never seem put off by my age at all. Telling your vet that you dont want to vaccinate doesnt have to be controversial at all... just tell them your reasons... I have only had a "heated" discussion with one vet about it and I never went back to that practice... I have a great relationship with my vet and he is very respectful of my choices... he was even nice when I told him no matter what his office policy was I was taking my girl home the day of her spay
Its all in the delivery.
Sorry to ramble... basically stand up for what you believe in, it doesnt matter how old you are!
