Titer testing in practice: Understanding immunity and guiding vaccination protocolson!

In this live lecture, participants will explore the clinical applications of antibody titer testing for core vaccines in dogs and cats. The session will review key immunologic principles, including secondary and sterilizing immunity, vaccine types, and duration of immunity (DOI) studies for modified-live vaccines. Attendees will gain an understanding of titer testing for CPV, CDV, CAV and FPV and how these tests can be integrated into current vaccination protocols. Special consideration will be given to puppies and kittens (maternal antibody interference), vaccine risk groups (autoimmune disease, immunosuppressive therapy, adverse vaccine reactions), and senior pets (immunosenescence). The session will emphasize how titer testing supports individualized vaccination strategies The lecture will also compare laboratory-based and in-house titer testing methods, outlining their advantages, limitations, and clinical applications. Finally, will conclude with practical answers to common clinical questions

• 1) Explain the principles of vaccine-induced immunity, including secondary and sterilizing immunity, and their relevance to antibody titer testing. (Knowledge-Based)
• 2) Describe the role of titer testing for core canine and feline vaccines and how it integrates into current vaccination protocols. (Knowledge & Application-Based)
• 3)Identify patient populations that benefit from individualized vaccine planning using titer testing, including young, senior, and vaccine-sensitive animals. (Practice-Based)
• 4)Apply evidence-based titer testing strategies to support personalized vaccine recommendations and client communication. (Application & Practice-Based)
• 5)Differentiate between laboratory-based and in-house titer testing methods, including their advantages, limitations, and appropriate clinical use. (Application-Based)