This is Noel Rochelle. She was 14. We adopted her at 4 months. She survived death from the jowls of a coyote. She survived a severe URI (upper respiratory infection.) Last week we received that License Renewal in the mail that required a rabbies vaccine certificate. We recently moved. By the word of mouth of a few people, we took her to LITTLE PAWS in Canyon Country, CA on 12/6/16. Dr. John weighed her, took her temp, examined her, did a topical organ exam, checked her teeth (the only 8 she had left), said her gums were a perfect pink color and gave her a good bill of health. And then she was vaccinated. 3 days later she began to show signs of lethargy and vomiting. She stopped eating and drinking. 12/15/16 we took her back to Dr. John. After a few tests he came back and said she was CRITICAL. He said she was internally bleeding. It was nearing 5:00 p.m., closing time. He said they couldn't help her there and referred us to another vet. We rushed her over. An xray was taken. The vet said everything looked normal. We could see her heart, kidneys, stomach, intestines. There were no blockages and if she was internally bleeding it was probably caused by her lacking immune system ---something had been administered that her system could not handle. IT WAS THE RABBIES VACCINE!
I wished I wasn't so trusting ...
I learned that senior cats, as they age, their immune systems ---like people, become compromised. Most can't handle the savage rabbies vaccine. WE DO NOT HAVE TO VACCINATE OUR PETS. If our pets are strictly indoor cats, they never have to be vaccinated. When you get those notices from the County, you OPT OUT and still get their required licenses. But especially older, senior cats, YOU OPT OUT.
This vet should have know this information. This vet should have warned us of her senior immune system. This vet should be up on animal laws, especially vaccinations. That is the #1 thing they do for our pets.
I am sad, angry, upset... but the up side is that I learned something from this, unfortunately through the death of my beloved Noel. Her and I want to pass it on to you so it DOESN'T happen to you. First, be sure your vet is knowledgeable, not only on how to cut open animals, spay or neuter, but for the simplest of procedures, a vaccine.
I also wished I would have YELPED this vet before going there. Sure, they have good reviews, but even thoughs have complaints. You can search yourself. I understand everyone one (including doctors, vets, etc.,) have to start somewhere, but vaccines to pets is basic 101.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and sharing in my loss. God Bless you and all your furry kids.
