I must admit I've been skimming lately so I didn't see the original posts on the vaccination thread. However its a bit timely because I'm becoming more convinced that I wont do rabies next year. I know I know, I agree with all the arguments. Its not the money either. (My ferrets get hearworm meds, Program, and Giesela has been x-rayed just about every time she coughs and I don't have a problem with that at all - and my vets very reasonable). I just hate the HUGE amount given and EVERY YEAR for a disease that (1) the likelihood of them getting is extremely remote (2) if they bit someone I know I would'nt be doing the ferret community any good but in my state they'd probably insist on death regardless of timely vaccinations (3) Giesela got her's last month and still has a huge lump at the vaccination spot. (4) there is a counter series of shots so its not like a bite is terminal to the human. (5) Not to mention the controversy about the inert ingrediants that may be causing cancer in cats. Screw it. The every year requirement is stupid. I haven't made up my mind for sure and will reevaluate next year. However as they get older I get less comfortable with it. Distemper yes. If there was a Parvo shot, yes - these are highly communicable. Any ideas on this lump she's got? Its twice as big as the one's she's had from the rabies vac before and is lasting longer. (BTW I seperate her distemper and rabies by 2-3 weeks). Mary, Booker the rescue dog and Boris and Giesela [Posted in FML issue 2428]