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Lawmakers in Delaware stepped up to help pets in a way that’s never been done in any state in the country. Once signed by the Governor, Maggie’s Pet Vaccine Protection Act could save the lives of countless pets moving forward.
Maggie’s Vaccine Protection Act, formally known as House Bill 214, unanimously passed in both the Delaware House and Senate, leaving just Gov. John Carney’s signature the last step in making it official. Once signed, veterinarians and pet owners will have the ability to exempt a pet from legally required rabies vaccine if the animal is sick, disabled, injured, or if other medical considerations exist which make vaccination a risk to the animal’s health and life. Instead of a vaccination, a Titer test, which measures a pet’s antibodies to combat rabies, can be used.
Delaware businessman and pet owner Al Casapulla initiated the bill after losing his beloved Shih Tzu, Maggie, to over-vaccination when state law required she be vaccinated, regardless of whether it was safe.
“I have been working on this bill since she died… I am extremely excited and very emotional,” Casapulla told the Coastal Point after learning the act had passed. “My passion to see this through was more than the passion I had when I started my business, because I knew if this gets passed we would be saving the lives of so many innocent animals and allowing vets to use their discretion on making legal, educated exemptions.”
“Maggie will be saving lives long after I am gone,” he said in an emotional Facebook post.
Governor Carney is expected to sign the bill in May.
Would you support the same bill in your own state? Weigh in with a comment below!
Chris
says:100% How can I get this started in Missouri?
heidi
says:Absolutely would support it! Bravo to this man and devasting about Maggie
Reus Chaya Hersh
says:Yes, I would support this kind of bill. My dog in 7 yo. His chances of contracting rabies is extremely low.
June De Pasquale
says:Absolutely! I would love to see it passed in Pennsylvania!
MsMoneypenny
says:This needs to be passed in EVERY state.
Danette Gouras
says:Absolutely!!!
Staci
says:Yes 100% in Illinois. I have a dog who developed autoimmune thyroiditis because of a vaccine. Never again will I vaccinate beyond puppyhood. Instead titer!
Normajean
says:Yes from Nevada. We would support a bill such as this
brenda l mills
says:YES…………..when i rescued my Rhodesian Ridgeback , his immune system was wrecked……he was sick…..i get his rabies vax every year, but the rabies vax was made for the life of the dog….when i was a younger person, your dog got a rabies shot when you got the pup…..then, only saw the vet when/if it was sick or hurt…
rachel
says:Yes I do support tittering an animal for any vaccinations. I hope Connecticut lawmakers see this and follow!!
Shanna
says:YES!! Absolutely would support this in WV!!
Donna Nuger
says:We titer our dogs for the other vaccines and strongly support doing a titer for rabies too. We aren’t being cheap, we are prudent. A titer is not cheaper, but it is better. Illinois, please join Delaware and allow for a titer rather than requiring a vaccination.
Anne
says:Absolutely
Dog Owner
says:YES!!!! Utah, and all 50 states need this!
Jutta
says:Yes, you are SO right!
Cecelia Lampley
says:Yes I would support a similar bill in Nevada.
Christine
says:I will definitely support this bill in Michigan for dogs and all other animals that this applies to.
I would support this bill in Illinois to get Titers passed for the best of care an welness for our pets,
Mike Fiekds
says:Sorry but you have all been misled by faulty reporting. Delaware just became the 19th state to offer a medical exemption in lieu of a rabies vaccine for ill and sick animals. A vet has the option of using a titer test to help with their decision but it is not required for a medical exemption. And in fact most medical exemptions are done without titer testing. Medical exemptions are generally difficult to get. Read more here:
facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10156699271156160&id=119106981159&anchor_composer=false
Jutta
says:Thanks Mike, for sharing! This is now a whole different story!
M. Hoover
says:Titters instead of over vaccinating. Common sense. For humans as well. We risk our pets lifes to follow the law. How wrong it this?
Mary
says:Yes I would absolutely support similar legislation. I would also recommend a national database, so that when a pet has been vaccinated in one state and rehomed/adopted in another state (especially when the pet’s owner can substantiate and provide a valid rabies certificate as proof/evidence of the vaccination), so that vets would not be required to re-vaccinate in order for the pet to be licensed in the new home state.
Raina
says:Mary,
If the animal comes with a rabies certificate, they don’t have to be vaccinated until such time as the vaccine is due again.
If rescue dogs are being repeatedly vaccinated prior to the next set being due, I would question if a rescue or rescues are following interstate animal transport laws, which fairly universally dictate that any animal over six months of age be vaccinated AND proof is with the animal in transit for sale. Most states also dictate the certificate of vaccination MUST be transferred with the animal.
If rescues in your area are routinely vaccinating dogs imported from another state, they’re unethical and not following laws.
Robin
says:I would wholeheartedly support legislation in Illinois for a rabies titer for our dogs.
You’ve made an excellent additional suggestion for similar nationwide legislation that I would also support.
[…] case you haven’t seen the news, there was some monumental lawmaking going on in the state of Delaware in 2020. It’s the first of its kind in the […]
Marcia
says:I absolutely would support this in NC. Positive tigers should be exempt period!
Lisa
says:I would definitely support a bill in NY. My dogs get titers on all vaccines and I’m against over vaccinating my dogs. I had a titer test on my dogs rabies to see how much of the vaccine was in they’re system and they didn’t need another rabies vaccination. The law is every three years for rabies vaccines and my town would not except a titer test.
Sheila
says:I am in NY as well. Would your town accept the NYS Medical Exemption form signed by a veterinarian? Mine did. My dog was also titered.
Jeanne
says:A big yes for Tennessee! We would love for this type of Bill to relieve us from this extreme burden. It’s ridiculous!
Denise
says:I would love to see this bill set in Mi. It should be a federal bill. I have lost a couple dogs due to over vaccination. These shots 100% shorten our pets lives.
Party
says:I absolutely Would love for this to bill to be passed in my starte of NY. This would save so many pets lives!!
Having a dog that has had an adverse reaction to the Rabies vaccine bth immune system compromise and behavioral I would be very highly motivated to get this passed in our state. After seeing many pets over vaccinated and having medical problems for life this is the first step in finding compromise to the problems that exist in today’s society.
Before everyone jumps down my throat about we wouldn’t have eradicated measles, polio etc I am not against vaccinations just the over use of them.
Bonnie Schipp
says:I would absolutely love to see this happening in Minnesota!
I had a Cairn Terrier with IBD/PLE that was stabilized using prednisolone and prescription food and seen several times per year by our Veterinarian. She was very overdue for her Rabies vaccination and after being stabilized for over 1&1/2 years with her immune system being suppressed by Budesonide. I had her vaccinated for Rabies, within 2 weeks she developed seizures and after months of trying to control them, I finally let her cross the Rainbow Bridge. I think if this was an option in MN she would still be here today.
I also had an 8 yr old Yorkie/Pom who had an enlarged heart being treated by a local PetSmart. He had medicine to help get the water around his heart removed. He was given his vaccinations, went into a code blue at the clinic and died that night.
R Beck
says:Yes! this bill should be passed in KY and IN! Long over due.
Heidi
says:Yes 100% percent!!!!
Cecelia
says:Thank you Mr Casapulla! I have sadly been a shoulder to cry on with many friends who had lost thier old pet soon after receiving their vaccinations.An older pets body cannot handle the vaccinations, and is too much on the organs. After I realized what was happening, I spread the word that if your pet is older, do not vaccinate.if your pet is sick , do not vaccinate.whatni don’t understand is vets should know this but still do it. I thought vets are suppose to care about animals!!
KRISTINE L KEATING
says:I would support this same bill in Georgia. I have several dogs and not only is it expensive, but I have two over 10 year old small dogs that only go outside for a minimal amount of time to do their business and in a fenced yard. 0% chance they will contact any wildlife.
Sherry
says:My heart goes out to you, Mr Casapulla.
Thank you so much for pursuing this legislation in Delaware in memory of your beloved Maggie and in the interest of our animal companions and the people who love them throughout our country.
Yes, please, Governor Dunleavy (Alaska)!
Sherry Grenier
Donna L
says:So what?! Over vaccinating is incredibly harmful. I have NO issue paying a $100 to keep my animal healthy.
Katie W
says:We need this in GA! I have a service dog and have to have him legally vaccinated, regardless of how ill it makes him. His other shots are covered under Titer, it is time the rabies is too!
Connie Sims
says:I live in Northern Kentucky and would love to see our state accept a rabies titer instead of a Rabies vaccine. I have been wondering how to go about getting this done. I just started doing titers recently. I have a doberman that hasn’t had a parvo/distemper vaccine in 7.5 years and her titer show she still has protection.
MADILYN
says:Yes. Finally I have been in support of such a bill for many years. Each time I bring it up to the various vets I have had for my dogs the issues falls on deaf ears. I have gone to diiferent vets in search of one who shares my concerns. We need to expand this issue to include all our pets not only the sick, or disabled. We humans do not get our core vaccines every year nor should our pets. Titers tell about their immunity.
Billie
says:Yes I would support this bill in Ohio.
Jackie Phillips
says:Never in California. Too progressive and much bigger than tiny and isolated Delaware.
Also, only for sick or injured or life threatening illness. Pretty small group
Tanya
says:Huh? I know of a lot of people and vets in CA that would support.
Erin
says:Im in CA, had my healthy dog titered and stood firm with my county. They agreed to accept his titer with the agreement that I would titer/license him annually instead of every 3 years. It can be done. People just have to stand up and stand firm!
How does Texas feel about it?
Ute Luppertz
says:I wish that we would have this law in Oregon!!!
Over vaccinations are a big problem.
Rabies is dangerous in particular.
Sandi Brangan
says:It would be wonderful to make this a standard in Texas. I don’t think enough people realize that all dogs, whether a 5 lb small dog or a great Dane receive the same shot and in the same amount. It makes no sense. Yes, to the titer test!
I want this bill passed everywhere. I do not believe in over vaccinating our dogs!
Carol VanZile
says:I agree…cats too. Ours only ever leave the house to go to the Vet for VACCINATIONS !
Our horses are required to have tests and vaccines before leaving the farm and they never go anywhere nor do other horses come here
I think all these animals are vaccinated far too often for diseases they’ll never have.
Sherry
says:This bill should be passed in every State. Over vaccinating is a real problem.
Lorraine Finn
says:Ilorra agre
Celeste Carvalho
says:Over vaccination is a real problem. People should not be challenged for not vaccinating children or animals!
Julia Franz
says:It is about time this was adopted somewhere. The ignorance surrounding the safety and effectiveness of vaccines is astounding. I hope other states follow suit and that it is also considered in vaccine mandates for people as well.
Deb
says:Vaccines are not safe or effective…for people,or animals! I stand for vaccine choice!
Jessica
says:You are Insane. Children Must be vaccinated! People like you are the reason diseases like measles are coming back. Children Died from diseases we no long see! Until you hold your child choking to death with diphtheria or watched your child have a seizure from measles you will not understand what parents used to go through to secure vaccine. Freaking loons
Jessica
says:You are Insane. Children Must be vaccinated! People like you are the reason diseases like measles are coming back. Children Died from diseases we no long see! Until you hold your child choking to death with diphtheria or watched your child have a seizure from measles you will not understand what parents used to go through to secure vaccine. Freaking loons
Kathy
says:Absolutely I would support this law! I no longer give my Maggie(also a shihtzu 6lbs) vaccines.She had a rough time with them and didn’t tolerate the benadryl very well that the Vet had me give her before and after. Doses are also too high and not size adjusted. This is just Wrong!!!
Nana Yasko
says:I agree. The future Bill’s should include opt outside for people who are sick and allow tigers to be taken for animal as ls rather than automatic vacc.
A rabies vaccine given to a human can have a strong titer up to 10 years later depending on the person.
Also a huge draft horse gets a 2cc dose of Rabies vacc and a miniature horse weighing 200# would get the same dose.
A huge dog gets a 1 cc dose. And a 16 week old 4 # puppy gets the same dose.
Jacque setmayer
says:Should be a law in the entire country
MaryAnn
says:It should be a law in EVERY state
Elizabeth Greggs
says:Yes,this should be Nation wide! !
Cindi
says:Yes. Would like to see a law that covers every state to protect our pets. Far too long pets have subject to these vaccinations. Just another money maker for pharmaceutical companies at the expense of our pets.
Joel Haan
says:I would love to see this as a priority in Michigan needs to be done here.
Sharon
says:Wow! We take our beloved pets more seriously than our beloved children? My daughter suffered severe side effects from vaccinations. It’s been a struggle for about 16 years. She is 21 and has finally overcome but at a great cost! I am not against vaccines totally but I am against wrapping multiple shots into one. YES I love my pets but I love my children more!
Mary Ann Suto
says:Didn’t l didn’t know about the Titer Test. If it saves lives- I’m for it. I wouldn’t want my dog to go thru what Maggie went thru. Hope gov.signs the bill. And, TY to all that worked on this.
Gwen Clark
says:Absolutely! We need this passed in Washington state.
Mariya Dolgopolova
says:We need this in Virginia! No animal should be vaccinated if they already demonstrate immunity. No additional protection is gained but animals suffer.
Nedra Meloni
says:I’m working on it!!!! Just sent a letter to a senator’s office! Do you want to help me?
Joan Bonge
says:Would love to see this passed in Michigan. Would definitely support bill that allows owner to request titer for rabies in lieu of mandatory shot requirement.
Sandra M Sullivan
says:This is very significant step. Congratualtions to Delaware. I hope it goes national.
OMG YES!
Karen
says:I definitely would support Titers instead of rabies vaccine in Arizona. How do we make this happen in every state?
Judy
says:This should be done for all vaccines
Please do New Jersey
Jackie
says:You can get a rabies waiver in NJ from your vet if animal is sick.
SC
says:Absolutely! I only do titers on my 12yr. old Golden. Hopefully soon all states will enact using titers instead of rabies whether animals are sick or not. There is no reason we should be over vaccinating our pets.
Paula
says:How can I get this implemented in my state
Dave Martin
says:Our 12 lb. Norwich Terrier has had violent reactions the last two rabies vaccine. Very lethargic for several hours within minutes of receiving the vaccine. He is due again in two years. We will risk legal action versus giving it to him again. We live in Pennsylvania and he is 8 years old.
Mary Ann Pros
says:Dave – Find a veterinarian who uses homeopathy (most likely a holistic vet). There is homeopathy to hel detox after the vaccination. I have used HomeoPet Liver Rescue – formerly Cleanz-Detox, before I found a vet that administered a detox along with the immunization It is very affordable and a wonderful company with great customer service (question answering).
I know someone who’s dog almost died from the rabies and she was able to opt out and still be able to purchase her dog license. Call your local animal shelter whoever gives out the dog license and talk to your vet about it also.
says:I know someone who’s dog almost died from the rabies and she was able to opt out and still be able to purchase her dog license. Call your local animal shelter whoever gives out the dog license and talk to your vet about it also.
Vickie S.
says:Thank you! I hope to see this in every state!
Roy Burks
says:Yes, I think we may be over medicating our animals just like many of us are over medicated.
Betsy
says:Yes I support this bill. Having had dogs that had compromised immune systems and then having a mandated Rabies vaccine has had ne consider testing my luck with the local authorities. It shouldn’t be that way. I hope the law makers can look at science and not just believe what “Big Pharm” says. But we all know that money talks. Poor dogs pay the price.
Andrea
says:Absolutrly . Some countries require not a rabies shot but rather a titer in order to bring your dog or cat to live with you
Lori
says:Yes
Adrienne Maddox
says:Yes, I support this cause!
Natalie Gahres
says:Yes!! Will support this much needed change to law.
patty mcclain evans
says:yes. my kitty had a sudden stroke. she kniped my hand as i soothed her in pain. instead of treating her stroke, her head was cut off to be tested for rabies, after she was put to sleep. she was up to date on ALL shots
Sharon Gray
says:What do ;you mean her head was cut off? actually cut off..thats cruel and barbaric,,, I would never have let that happen to any animal of mine,,,,my god….
Marilyn Batey
says:I would absolutely support this. As long as we have the ability to check titers, there is no reason to over vaccinate pets!
Laurel
says:Be cause Hawaii is rabies free, will this help to stop the long and harmful quarantine of animals coming from mainland U.S.?
I would certainly support a similar bill in the State of Texas! I haven’t had a pet die from a rabies shot but the health of the animal should be considered before the shot is given.
Lindsey
says:I absolutely would support the same bill to allow titers to be done in place of rabies vaccine in WI and all states. I would love to see this done for all vaccines.
Sue
says:This bill should have been for all states. I understand that our Veterinarians must follow the law of each state. We have pets that are so over vaccinated that it is pathetic. Granted, we have trusted them because they are the ones educated in regard to our pets vaccinations. Our Veterinarians are very intelligent people or they would not have been able to pass their boards. So, they must see and understand the harm that over vaccinating is causing. THIS MUST BE STOPPED. Also, if this vaccination is needed it should be the correct dose for the size of the dog. I do not want my 12 pound dog getting enough vaccine that would be sufficient for a 100 pound dog. It does not take a genius to figure out the correct dosage. IT IS TIME FOR OUR LEGISLATORS TO PASS A BILL THAT WOULD PROTECT OUR PETS AND THEIRS. I believe this can be accomplished with support from our trusted Vets.
S. Granger
says:Another Sue who supports this law. My two dogs ages 12 and 7 at 24 pounds each are titered for rabies (and parvo/distemper). The titer expires in 3 years when I will do it again. My groomer accepts titers. My vet drew and prepared the sample at no charge during annual wellness exam. Sent through PROTECTTHEPETS.COM very easy and low cost.
Deirdre
says:I soooo agree! My 4 pound Yorkie was brought in as an emergency, having a bone stuck in his esophagus
He was 17 years old at the time. The vet and staff worked on little Shamus for 3 hours and saved his life! When I went to take him home they insisted that he get a rabies shot. It’s the law in NC. He has not had shots for many years and I knew a rabies shot at this stage in his life and after undergoing 3 hours of life saving procedures, would kill him. I said absolutly NOT! I said that it would kill him. I know that they agreed and they found a waiver sheet that I gladly signed.
Sherry
says:California needs to so this as well. My beloved Tiffany died from Lymphoma….due to over-vaccinating. If humans don’t need annual or every three year vaccinations, why should our pets?
Keli
says:Yes. And for other vaccinations too. We need to get a grip with the ability to do titers instead of over vaccing dogs.
PH
says:Rabies is the only vaccination required by law. The others are already up to the pet owner.
Teresa Wood
says:Our 7 year old cattle dog mix had a nearly fatal reaction from her vaccine. No, I did not take her back to the vet where she would of received benadril and something else. I was wise enough to take her to a friend of mine thsat understands over vaccination. We determined that the preservative was the culprit. I did call around to other vets They called it a dirty vaccine and were very aware of it! I treated our dog with homopathic drops. Fortunately she pulled out of it but not after she had stopped eating, lost hair, joints got stiff and her heart nearly stopped. I was able to get a letter from our vet to present to the county so we could get a dog license. (Penalty was steep to not have one ).
Lois Jackson
says:I would whole heartedly support this bill!
Thank you!
Southern Illinois
Kelly Wyman
says:Yes. Please share the information you supplied to the state for persuasion.
Jennie Adams
says:Yes, I will support a bill like this in Florida!
Cindy Ford
says:I have been asking for this for years now in both horses and dogs!! I am in Florida!!
Christina
says:Yes!!
Michele kirk
says:Yes. What are the steps to propose this legislation in NJ?
Cynthia Sperbeck
says:Yes, we need Kentucky to do this. We do titers for our dogs and they always have had more than enough antibodies but our state makes you do the rabies. It makes no sense. If they have the antibodies than they don’t need the vaccination. Plain and simple. What uneducated person created this law? Veterinarians should push for this because they know over vaccinating is not in the best interest of the animal’s health. All states should conform.
PH
says:Vets are probably not going to push for this legislation as annual vaccinations are money makers for their clinics. Pet owners will have to drive this change and IMHO we need to push for titers in lieu of vaccination regardless of the health of the animal. Only a very small percentage will qualify for titers only if it is based on medical exemptions.
Romanie Baines
says:I would definitely suport a law like this in New York State, and for that matter any all States. I believe it’s criminal thar all dogs must have a Rabies vaccination repeated regardless of their age or health.
Allynn
says:Yes. Definitely in Virginia.
Tina Dugger
says:This is awesome!!!.. Would love something like this in Tennessee!!
Lori Kolbye
says:Absolutely. This is needed in all 50! States!
Annette
says:Yes!! Titers are acceptable proof for humans. Animals have been over vaccinated for a long time. It’s not safe and it’s expensive !
Shirley
says:Absolutely yes! We over vaccinate our pets because of laws. Let our vets, who have many years of school, make the best decision.
Michelle
says:Yes I would vote for this!
A VetMed Student
says:A titer test is $100-200. A rabies vaccine is maybe $30? And if your animal has a negative or low titer, you will need to pay for both the vaccine and the titer.
PH
says:Spoken like a true vet…vaccinate, vaccinate, vaccinate, regardless of how it effects the health of our pets. For some of us, doing right by our pets is much more important than money. You are the epitomy of the kind of vets I avoid. Please, if you are still in school do our pets a favor and choose a different profession.
Donna L
says:So what?! Over vaccinating is incredibly harmful. I have NO issue paying a $100 to keep my animal healthy.
Paul
says:I would absolutely endorse this law. It’s high time we quit over vaccinating our pets because of outdated vaccine laws.
Barbara Richards
says:Absolutely! I’ve been battling with this not only with vets but with boarding kennels who INSIST that you have required vaccinations and they refuse titers. I won’t take trips because I can’t do this to my furry little family members. I won’t compromise their health.
Sharon DeWitt
says:Absolutely! Come on Florida, seniors depend on their pets for many reasons, and so do the other pet owners in our state. Let’s ne proactive and follow their lead with a similar bill in our state!
Tara
says:Halleluyah!! But it’s only becuz they can charge more money for titer testing!
Carol
says:Yes! Minnesota and all states need this law. It is way past due.
roxanne
says:Would absolutely support such a bill — everywhere !!!!
Kathy Rhodes
says:I support this and call on my state of Tennessee to do likewise.
Robert V Sumner
says:This should be the law in every state…it has been long overdue..
Vicki
says:Hope Montana follows in your steps. For pets and horses.
Holly Jurczak
says:YES on titer for rabies vaccination! I want Michigan to get on this too!
Lynne
says:I would be 100% behind Maggie’s Law were it to be introduced here in Florida!
Sharon Gretsinger
says:Absolutely would support this bill.! Have lost 2 dogs as a result of required rabies vaccine. Have spent thousands keeping another one alive after reacting to the vaccine. I’m NOT an antivaxer, I believe in protecting our pets but what we are requiring are pets to have is ludicrous.
Bonnie E Kramer
says:I would definately support a bill such as Maggie’s Vaccine Protection Act. All states need to do this to protect our sweet pets. They deserve to be given this consideration.
carol hall
says:YAY for Delaware now come on states let’s follow let’s stop killing our pets
Taylor
says:YES!!!!! NC needs this one ASAP as well!!!!!
Sidney Hardie
says:I hope this spreads across the United States. I have a 12 year old dog with cancer due for her rabies vaccination this year. I hate the thought of breaking the law, but I will not subject her to another rabies vaccination.
Shelly Brandon
says:I would certainly support this bill in the state of OKLAHOMA !
Celeste Champagne
says:I will hope that this bill will be passed throughout all the states and be made a universal law.
Kim
says:California needs to pass a similar bill. We can titer for parvovirus and distemper, but not rabies. Over vaccination is one of the reasons so many of our pets have such a high rate of cancer.
Cindy Hamilton
says:We need this in Ct!
Becky
says:This needs to be implemented in EVERY state.
Mark Judy Harvey
says:Totally agree! We live in PA.
Happy Babbish DVM
says:In my research the Rabies vaccine is one of the most dangerous and potentially lethal vaccines we give to pets and Veterinarians are forced to give it way too often. It also is a huge contributor to hypothyroidism which runs rampant in the canine population. ALL Veterinarians take a “I WILL DO NO HARM OATH” upon graduation. So why did it take a Delaware businessman whose beloved pet died after a Rabies Vaccine to Push this Bill instead of a Veterinarian policing our own profession! Maggie’s Bill is really just plain old good medicine! Thank you Al Casapulla for fighting the fight and thank you Delaware House and Senate for passing Maggie’s Bill! My dream is that this Bill will permeate to EVERY STATE. Maggie’s death truly will save many lives! I am so sorry for your loss. My own beloved Susannah dog died secondary to vaccines that I personally administered to her. It changed my career path and I am now a Holistic Veterinarian thanks to Susannah’s HUGE sacrifice.
I would absolutely support this bill if it came to Michigan!
Sandy Thompson
says:This is awesome. Makes me want to move to Delaware. Hope the rest of the states take notice!
Ann Gibboney
says:I totaly support this. Over vaccination has to be stopped. Our dogs should be living longer and healthier lives. Pet owners do your research on vaccines.
Catherine Crago
says:Yes I would definitely support. I had 9 dogs a year ago. I lost 2 to cancer, that they developed within weeks of annual exam and rabies shots a year ago. After this years exam and 3 year rabies for different dogs, 2 more were fine at exam and developed lymphoma in less than a month. 1 started with a tumor at the vaccine site.
Dawn Crockett
says:Yes!!! I would welcome & support this bill in my state of PA
Vickie
says:We need this law in Maryland
martin s oldford
says:Sounds like a good bill if it saves dogs lives. Maybe it should be Nationwide.
Has adequate research been done to equate titers with Rabies protection? And what was done to prove that over-immunization was the cause of the dog’s death. But, to be clear, I do believe we have been immunizing excessively for many viral diseases.
D M Conti DVM
Nandee Ann Willets
says:PLEASE help our dogs,cats and horses in Massachusetts
Thank you for your great work
This is a landmark and something that Dr. Dodds has championed through the Rabies Challenge Fund for many years. We need every dog owner to support this in their individual states as much as possible. Rabies has long been the cause of thousands of pets lives, very needlessly.
Ann Chase
Honor Service Dogs, Inc.
Cathy Shelton
says:I would Support it in TN
Carol harten
says:My Yorkie was very sick from over vaccination. I spent thousands of dollars trying to find out what happened. I took her to a dermatologist vet who was able to identify vasculitis caused by over vaccination. Three years later I got the titer test and it was found she is 6x’s over what is normal for rabies vaccines. I would definitely support this bill as I almost lost her and still have to Face the residual affects of what happened. I believe this bill will save many owners from the heartache Al had to face. My Izzie was lucky however not all pets are.
Bill welton
says:I certainly would. The rabies vaccine causes cancer and many other problems in pets. That is part of the reason their life spans have been cut in half. Over vaccinations period. When i was a kid my dogs lived to be 14 -19 years old and never had any shots and ran the woods every day, one was a 19 year old shepherd.
Shirley L Adams
says:Well, I’m old, and we had rabies vaccination laws in Florida when I was young that were every year. Now they aren’t that frequent. But my dad had dogs his whole life and lost puppies and dogs to parvo, distemper, and heartworm treatment (before there was a preventive for HW.) I’ll be glad when Dr. Schulz finishes his studies to show how long the rabies vax lasts. I would have to see the science behind the titer and the quality of the lab. Also, as dogs get older, they can develop immunosenescence. Where I live there are rabid wild animals found every year. I don’t think we should lose sight of the face that rabies is a public health issue, too.
Kursten
says:I would like to have that law here in New Hampshire. I am a vet tech and I agree a titer for rabies will benefit the animals that are sick or dying.
Patricia Estes
says:So very very glad to see this finally happening. I vhave been supporting this for years. Thank you so much. Bless you Maggie
Ron Rabun
says:Right on. Ya Dudes Ya
Yes! Maggie Strong!!
Judy Whitcher
says:I hope NH will do the same,the sooner the better for our animals.sake. We have done the titer tests for twenty years for what some vets called the annuals.
Christine Fisher
says:I would definitely support this bill in Pennsylvania. I had two pet family members die from complications from the rabies vaccine. One was a 12 year old cat with lymphoma. The vet would not see her unless she had the vaccine. She died the same day after getting the vaccination. Then I had my beloved, Stormie, a 13 year old dog, who the vet would not treat unless she had the rabies vaccine. Against my better judgment, I agreed. I rushed her to the er vet the next day and she passed within a month. The er vet said it was from the vaccine.
Kathy Devol
says:Yes I would agree to this bill. A titer would be great to determine if the pet still has immunity from past Rabies vaccine so as not to be over vacciinated.
Meg Crockett-McNeely
says:So sorry for your loss of Maggie. We owned two Shih Tzu’s so can definitely relate. We would support the bill for certain.
Dominik
says:I wish Poland was as savvy as Delaware in this regard.
Pat S
says:What a great start! I’ve used titers for other vaccinations and have always wished as my animals aged that I could titer rabies, as well. It’s high time we began to recognize the over vacccination of our animal companions.
Jill Andrews
says:I’m all for this in Michigan & Florida!
Jody Applebaum
says:This is absolutely phenomenal! I chose not to vaccinate my older dog the last time he was due for rabies. I was told I had the right to refuse it, even though it’s legally required. I did a titer to “protect” myself, since he travels with me to dog shows. His titer came back with almost double the immunity level. Current research points to the fact that a rabies vaccination can last for at least seven years, if not the lifetime of the animal. I have seen far too many adverse reactions to vaccines. I congratulate the forward-thinking lawmakers of Delaware on passing this very important piece of legislation!
Michele.
says:If only this were available everywhere..
Linda
says:I excited to hear this has passed! Please we need this in Ohio. How can we get things started?
Anastasia
says:Way to go Al!
How heartwarming in Maggie’s honor that this is happening. Hopefully it’ll spread from state to state.
Thank You for your diligence in this matter – the laws are really so archaic.
Rosemary Szumowski
says:Thank you Casapulla for doing this? I have an older dog and not healthy. 200% agree. Let De. Be first at something good. Hooray!
Faith Bigras
says:Absolutely
Donna Barnes
says:I definitely support Maggie’s vaccine protection act, rabies titer. I would also recommend, dosage regulations,so that 5 lb. Dogs aren’t required to receive the same amount as dogs that weigh over 100 lbs.
Capri Angel
says:Yes, I would support this bill.
Connie
says:100 % YES
Mary Beth McManus
says:Absolutely I’d love to see this in all USA. Thank you for bringing this jaw forward and to fruition! It’s a win win situation. Pets wont die and or get as many cancers or disease from over vaccinating. Vets will still be able to charge for the titer test The labs processing the tests will hire more people to handle this. Lawmakers get to brag
Thank you Maggie’s owner.
Karline
says:It’s about time and I hope the other 50 states follow soon
Patricia Walter
says:I totally agree. Most times they are vaccinated without reason. They give the same amount to a ten pound dog as they do to a fifty pound dog. How is that safe? No wonder they get sick.
Joyce Rath
says:Who do I contact in Virginia to push this bill?
Rosanne
says:I support this bill 150%!!We have to fight strong and get it passed in every state in the US! I hoped for getting titer testing after the initial rabies shot instead of getting any boosters but this is a start.
Brenda Jo Jones
says:We need this in Pennsylvania!
This is awesome. Hoping more states will follow suit!
MaryJohn LeMark
says:Absolutely, I am all for it!!!Every State needs to support this bill !’How can we get this done in every Stste?
Nikki
says:I would love it if my state also had this. I own a dog who has an autoimmune disease so vaccines can be fatal.
Susan
says:Yes I would definitely support that bill
Judy Cloman
says:I hope this protocol will be accepted in my state of Massachusetts as well as every other one ! It’s about time .
Jean Cervi
says:Absolutely should be the law in every state! My pets only get the required rabies after the needed vaccines when they are youngsters. Years later all titer tests show more than adequate levels of protection in their systems. Thank goodness Delaware is leading the way to changing awareness and the law.
Deborah
says:I would whole-heartedly support this in SC.
Bridgit Gilmore
says:From a fellow dog owner who lost my beautiful boy to vaccine induced IMPT, I want to say a joyful and tearful CONGRATULATIONS! Let’s hope and pray that other states quickly follow suit.
Mary
says:Absolutely I agree with the titers test instead of over vaccinating
Yes YES yes!!! My three elderly dogs had to have their teeth done. All have been vaccinated throughout their lives. As they got older around 8 I noticed they were having reactions to their shots…. SO I stopped. At around the age of 11 they needed thier teeth done. Not one vet I went to would do anything without then being up to date on their shots, nor considered a titer an option. Basically I was FORCED to get them their shots in order to have their teeth done. Shortly after (within three days) all three of my dogs had seizures. They developed heart issues and renal failure. All died within the space of a year. We spent thousands on vet bills. I broke my heart they all were only 12 yrs old. My Last dog Wolfy who was the youngest Lad chow mix was vaccinated because the State law for dog licensing required it. They forced us to vaccinate he also was 13. Shortly after he developed heart and renal issues and developed cushings. He reacted the the vaccinations the same way my other three did. They all had the same symptoms EXACTLY. That is no coincidence. Vets know that these shots are not necessary after certain age. Yet state laws have done more harm than good in as far as our pets go. The science backs it.
Dee Hopkins
says:Yes I would like to see this passed in Tennesee. Every time my 11 year old gets vaccinated she is wobbly and sick.
Too many pets have died. Because of this it’s about time this gets taken care of. Thank you for passing this bill and saving the pets lives.
Kim Barson
says:Fingers crossed that the Governor signs the bill! We had a beautiful collie mix that was known to have a brain injury, resulting in a permanently dilated pupil. Unfortunately, he had to stay at a kennel for a few days and the kennel refused to take titers. So against better judgement, and against what the vaccine itself says (to be given only to healthy animals), he received the vaccine and developed seizures within a month. He died a few months later after the seizures become unmanageable. Please, please stop the cruel state requirements for unnecessary vaccinations!
Jocie
says:I need this in Mississippi, My Fur baby has Cancer and I’m so scare of rabie shot, I don’t know what to do, please help us
Karen Smith
says:This is great!!! Wish they would pass the same in PA
kim thompson
says:Yes, I am disgusted my housecats cannot get treatment without rabies vaccines. They never ever leave the house. They are 14 yrs old and should not be over vaccinated. No animal should, but especially older small animals.
Karin
says:This is common sense when it comes to mandated vaccines that can cause injury or death.
Now we need this for human beings.
Susan Smith
says:Needs to be enacted in every state for the good of our k9 buds!
This is especially good for older dogs that have been vaccinated for years & have proven immunity or dogs with immune issues, cancer etc.
Roxanne Nichols'
says:I live in Virginia. This would be the best thing to ever happen if our State is included in Maggie’s Vaccination Protection Act. There are a lot of small breed’s that can’t tolerate this and other vaccines. Please help us in Virginia! Thanks, Roxanne Nichols’
Jeri Baker
says:Yes I would support this in my state of Oregon
Pat Bently
says:How do I start this action in my state? I live in Arizona and would love to make this happen here.
Thank you!
Pat
Leida Acevedo
says:Yes I hope its passed in New Jersey as well.
Kimberly
says:Ohio needs this, my dog is old and never does well with this shot.
Steve Witte
says:The Titer test is the safer solution when the animal is in medical distress. Science should triumph over illogical law.
Kristin
says:Yes I absolutely would support this Bill in Virginia. Less vaccines the better for our pets.
Bravo to Al for fighting the good fight and for the legislators in Delaware seeing the light! Let this precedent ring out across the land: rabies over-vaccination needs to STOP. It’s only damaging innocent animals and is too often pushed for profit, in the false name of “law” or worse, “prevention!” Ask the veterinary immunologists if this makes sense before you ring alarms of rabies over taking the U.S. It’s not going to happen, and the key lies in three small letters: DOI. Duration of immunity. It’s a long time, folks, many years if not life. There is exactly this much science behind revaccinating yearly or every three years: 0!
Deidra
says:Yes!
Suzanna Botkin
says:Absolutely YES!!
Leighann Arizmendi
says:This needs to be passed in every state. Federally would be great as well as logical. Long over due.
Lisa
says:I would love if Ohio would pass a bill like this! I sat with my daughter’s 9 lb Havanese as he was having breathing difficulties after his second annual rabies vaccine. He was given Benadryl prior but still reacted terribly. Plus our little guy has high liver enzymes.
Teresa
says:Absolutely YES I support this. I think every animal should be allowed to have a titer run…not just those with medical issues though. But it’s a start!!
Paulette Couture
says:Absolutely! Over vaccination is killing our pets! Wake up people!
Jan Clarke
says:Yes i would support it in Texas
Grace
says:Yes! lets hope all states can folliw suit with this important step to save lives and not allow such suffering of our beloved pets.
Mary
says:I would strongly support this bill in Ohio. Rabies over vaccination along with other vaccinations damage and kill way too many dogs every year.
Cathy Kresan
says:Absolutely the right way to go! We are over vaccinating our dogs and there are lethal consequences – and all required by law! Terrible!
If you want to concentrate on health, this is the only way to go! Require vaccine or titer and we will all be safe – including our pets!
I am speaking because I have a dog that had a severe reaction to a rabies vaccine! I have personal knowledge!
Chelly
says:Yes I would support this bill!!! Pets are over vaccinated and some just can’t take it and die. Thank you Delaware for passing this!!
Greg largent
says:Bring this to Illinois. There is MORE than enough SCIENTIFIC evidence to support using a titers test to prove Rabies efficacy is present to prevent rabies in the animal.
Terri
says:This is fantastic! I hope every state will do this!
Maureen whisler
says:We need this in Pennsylvania. This is great.
Svetlana
says:We need rabies titer test to be approved in Ca. I want to protect our pets from unnecessary over vaccination
Let then live longer healthier life
Joy
says:Absolutely!
Donna Vickery
says:I am so for this. I think animals are over vaccinated anyway. Same shot for a 4 lb dog as a 100 lb dog.
Polly Cisco
says:Here is a list of all US states that accept veterinary exemptions: rabieschallengefund.org/states-with-medical-exemptions
Al
says:Yes! We also need laws to stop the puppy mills that are right in broad daylight, to curb the abuse & neglect of these defenseless animals. Aloud to mass bread & protected by their religion. There at least needs to be a limitation on no more than one litter a year. When will our men in power step up?
PATRICIA PAULK
says:Yes absolutely would support this bill..
Karla M Wilson
says:Virginia accepts a medical waiver for Rabies vaccination from veterinarians. Accepting a Rabies titer as proof of immunity would benefit all dogs, not just those with a need for medical waiver.
Cindy Douglass
says:I hate to think that my 16.5 pound young dog gets the same rabies that a 150 pound dog gets. It makes no sense and leads to over medicating and attacking the immune system. We would never give a human baby the same dosage of medicine that we give it’s mom! Congratulations to Delaware!!
Marie
says:ohio seems to be the stupidest of all states, so i doubt they will ever do anything this smart.
Sharon Adams
says:I hope all the states will follow suite immediately
Kris
says:Wonderful news thank God people are starting to open up their minds about over vaccinations. I hope & pray the rest of the states accept this into law.
Nan Rand
says:Yes I would definitely support this kind of bill for Maine.
Sue
says:I am very glad to see this. Dr John Robb DVM is a proponent of this. I agree that we should be able to titer test. Vets, vet techs, RVS rehabbers and rehabbers that want the added protection of a rabies vaccination are titer tested for their Rabies immunity to see if they need a booster. All states should allow this with out companion animals.
Pamela Boswell
says:Most certainly would get be hind it in Florida. over vaccinations kills our animals.. It is time to push for this. We wee far too much cancer.
Dianne Webb
says:I am so sorry for the loss of your dog and so happy about the results of your fight to make a difference in many other pet’s lives… Thank you for your hard work..
Deb H.
says:Awesome news. Hopefully other stares will follow. Thank you for your hard work on this
Anna Mozol
says:Will this be available in the UK? Are there any companies taking this on for the uk?
Not only rabies titer but titers for all vaccines. Our border collie was over-vaccinated and he died unnecessarily young.
Darlene Puhatch
says:I would definately support this bill in Pennsylvania!!! I have to give Benadryl to my dog before Rabies Vaccine is given! I do Titers on all other vaccines and they have never needed any since the fist year!
Victoria S Lloyd
says:I would support it in California! No need to make it for immune compromised-only. Titers can prove immunity, so any animal with positive titer test should be exempt!
Lynn Grenier
says:This is wonderful news. I hope a Bill like this can be passed in every state.
Nancy bsrd
says:I would support a bill if proposed in ct.
I would support this bill in Illinois to get Titers passed for the best of care an welness for our pets,