Vaccinations
Essential information about pet vaccinations and health care.
Our Vaccination Philosophy
At Cross Our Paws Rescue, the health and long‑term well‑being of our animals is a top priority. We believe in evidence‑based veterinary care, which includes ensuring that every animal in our care receives appropriate core vaccinations to protect them from serious and potentially life‑threatening diseases. These core vaccines are essential, especially for animals transitioning from uncertain backgrounds or communal environments, and they play an important role in both individual and community health.
At the same time, we are equally committed to not over‑vaccinating. Modern veterinary research shows that core vaccines often provide long‑lasting immunity, and repeated, unnecessary boosters may increase the risk of adverse reactions, immune‑mediated conditions, or vaccine sensitivity in some dogs. For this reason, we support titer testing where appropriate. Titer tests measure existing immunity and can help determine whether additional vaccination is actually needed, allowing for more informed and individualized care decisions.
Our approach balances protection with prevention — protecting animals from disease while avoiding unnecessary medical intervention. We encourage adopters to continue working with a trusted veterinarian who respects current vaccine guidelines, considers titer testing, and tailors care to each pet's health, age, and lifestyle. This thoughtful approach supports healthier animals, stronger immune systems, and better lifelong outcomes.