What is the recommended vaccination approach for core vaccines in seniors?

• A. Core vaccines per guidelines with health-status assessment and risk-based decisions; avoid unnecessary vaccines; consider titers when appropriate
• B. Do not vaccinate seniors at all
• C. Vaccinate yearly with high-dose vaccines regardless of risk
• D. Only vaccinate if signs of disease

Answer: (A)

Vaccinating senior dogs is about protecting them from serious diseases while accounting for aging and any health issues. Core vaccines should be given following current guidelines, but the dog's health status and exposure risk are weighed to tailor the plan. If a senior has stable health and low exposure risk, a booster may be deferred or avoided; if immunity is uncertain or exposure risk is higher, boosters can be considered, and antibody titers can help determine whether a booster is truly needed. The goal is to maintain protection with the fewest unnecessary vaccines, avoiding unnecessary boosters that could provoke adverse reactions in an older, potentially frail immune system.