06/24/2026
Rabies Vaccine PART 3:
Most pet owners are never told which rabies vaccine their dog is receiving, but there can be important differences between products.
Some traditional raybies vaccines contain adjuvants, which are added to stimulate the immune system. Some contain thimerosal, a mercury-containing preservative, while others are available in thimerosal-free versions.
More recently, a newer rabies vaccine was introduced that uses RNA particle technology and does not contain traditional adjuvants or thimerosal. But I do not suggest this one!
As a holistic pet owner, I believe it’s important to understand your options and ask questions before any vaccine is given.
Personally, I would choose thimerosal-free options whenever possible because I prefer to minimize unnecessary exposures.
I am also taking a cautious approach with the newest RNA-particle rabies vaccine. It is still relatively new compared to traditional rabies vaccines that have decades of real-world use behind them. For my own dogs, I prefer to wait for more long-term experience and safety data before considering a newer vaccine technology.
When looking at the chart, the one I would choose is the second one down. The one I would never use is the last one.
Every pet owner should do their own research, ask questions, and make informed decisions that align with their comfort level and their dog’s individual needs.
Being an advocate for your dog starts with understanding your options.
Tomorrow I will post rabies series, Part 4! Tittering your dog instead of vaccinating!
