As a vet, I have extensive experience with vaccines. Animals are vaccinated much more than people. Vaccines contain mutated bacteria, viruses, immune irritants, foreign proteins and chemical preservatives. Injecting these toxins, introduces them directly into the blood and lymph, bypassing the first line defenses — skin, mucus, saliva, etc. Nowhere in nature does such an exposure occur. How can we expect a normal immune reaction to such a supernormal assault? Research has shown that vaccines are often immunosuppressive for days to weeks after administration. Studies have also shown that vaccines weaken the thyroid gland. Veterinary journals have reported on vaccine induced cancer in cats. Medicine has no idea of the long term effects. A recent paper by the American Animal Hospital Association has called the practice of giving annual boosters a tradition without evidence to support it.

Homeopaths have referred to vaccine induced problems as vaccinosis for decades. From my experience and that of others, I say without reservation that many chronic diseases are caused by vaccinations. I often find that a health problem began shortly after vaccination. I am certain this is no coincidence. Fortunately, homeopathy can help. Unfortunately, vaccines are a BILLION dollar industry and vets make a large part of their income from them. Despite the new findings, there is no move to reduce vaccine use. Most use the excuse that they don't want to be sued should an animal become ill. Another rationalization is that some pets are not protected despite vaccination therefore, it is best to vaccinate every pet to be safe. If vets knew how much damage they were doing, I believe most would change. There is too much power and money promoting more vaccines. Vets are inundated with sales people, advertisements and marketing materials telling them how important and lucrative vaccines are. One journal ad urged vets to use corona virus vaccine because most dogs with corona virus DON'T have symptoms. Thus, it is an insidious disease and no one knows just how many dogs are affected. What perverse logic! Now we are supposed to immunize for germs that don't make animals sick!

Once a company has invested millions in research, they will stop at almost nothing to recoup their costs. Those on the other side of the fence can't compete. All we have is experience, common sense and a desire to heal our patients. These have not yet been enough. The tide has been turning recently. Pet owners are taking more control. They are studying the pros and cons of medical procedures and making educated decisions. The results are becoming noticeable. I am seeing more pets who have not been vaccinated in recent years. We are on the edge of a revolution. People are seeking alternatives in all areas of medicine. What are the alternatives to vaccinations? Good health maintenance through proper nutrition and exercise is the best protection against ALL diseases. Homeopathy has proven effective in the prevention and healing of a serious infectious diseases such as cholera and typhus. I am sure it is just as effective in parvo and distemper.

• Russell Swift, DVM, Classical Homeopath