Active Grant No: 759:
Investigation of Antigenic Causes of Vaccine-Associated Allergic Reactions in Dogs

Disease(s): Vaccines

Sponsor(s):
Affenpinscher Club of America, American Belgian Tervuren Club, Inc., American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club Charitable Trust, American Sealyham Terrier Club, Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America, Border Terrier Club of America, Boston Terrier Club of America Charitable Trust, Bull Terrier Club of America, Bulldog Club of America Charitable Health Fund, Inc., Chihuahua Club of America, Collie Health Foundation, Dalmatian Club of America Foundation, Inc., French Bulldog Club of America, French Bulldog Club of America Rescue League, Greyhound Club of America, Health & Rescue Foundation of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Club of America, Italian Greyhound Club of America, Miniature Pinscher Club of America, Inc., National Amateur Retriever Club, Pug Dog Club of America, Inc., Seminole Kennel Club, Skye Terrier Club of America, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Endowment Fund, Tibetan Spaniel Club of America, Tibetan Terrier Club of America, United States Kerry Blue Terrier Club, Inc., Vizsla Club of America Welfare Foundation, Welsh Terrier Club of America, Inc., Westie Foundation of America, Inc., Yorkshire Terrier Club of America Foundation, Inc.

Researcher(s): George Moore, DVM
Breed(s): All (non-specified)

Abstract:
Allergic reactions are the most common adverse event associated with vaccination in dogs. Recent research has demonstrated that small dogs in general, and several specific breeds, are at higher risk for these reactions. Laboratory studies have shown that normal dogs make antibodies against many vaccine components, even though they may not show an allergic reaction immediately following vaccination. Although the specific cause of allergic reactions in dogs remains unknown, vaccine components residual from the manufacturing process have been incriminated. Using serum from dogs of high-risk breeds, this study will compare antibody concentrations in dogs demonstrating allergic reactions versus antibody concentrations in dogs of the same breed that don't have reactions. From this study, vaccine components that stimulate allergic reactions will be identified, prompting vaccine manufacturers and/or the USDA (as regulating agency) to remove or reduce these substances and improve the safety of canine vaccines.