A study, released by Boston university’s school of public health, found that 37 percent of owners consider dog vaccines to be unsafe, 22 percent view them as ineffective, and 30 percent deem them unnecessary. While the rabies vaccine is mandated in most us states, many dog owners remain hesitant about other recommended vaccines such as those against parvovirus, canine hepatitis, and distemper.
Researchers claim that this trend could pose increased risks of disease transmission for dogs, pet owners, and veterinary professionals. This hesitancy seems to be a reflection of the general skepticism toward vaccinations seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Veterinarians and pet owners alike express concern over this development, claiming it puts not only the health of the pets at risk, but also people who come into contact with unvaccinated animals.
