Titre Testing
Titre testing is a simple blood test used to check whether your dog has adequate immunity to Distemper, Hepatitis, and Parvovirus (DHP). It helps you make informed decisions about vaccination and avoid unnecessary boosters. At Holistic Vet Care, both of our vets are fully trained and qualified, so they’re able to offer expert advice and guidance around your pet’s immunity.
Note: Titre testing may not be suitable for highly anxious or reactive dogs. If your dog is fearful or may react during blood sampling, we kindly ask that they attend wearing a muzzle for everyone’s safety.
Benefits of Titre Testing
Book your free introductory consult
Not sure if we can help? Book a free 15min introductory consult with one of our holistic vets!
It’s a chance to get to know us, ask questions, and decide if you want to use our services with zero obligation.
Introductory consults can be in person or via Teams. Terms and Conditions apply.
Titre testing as part of a holistic approach
At Holistic Vet Care, our qualified vets offer titre testing as part of a holistic, personalised approach to vaccination. Instead of automatically boosting vaccines every 3 years, titre testing checks whether your dog already has immunity to DHP.
This approach:
- Supports your dog’s immune system without unnecessary vaccination
- Provides reassurance that immunity is present
- Works alongside your wider health plan and holistic care
Titre testing does not include Leptospirosis, which is typically given annually. Decisions about Leptospirosis vaccination are made individually with your primary vet or one of our holistic vets.
Is titre testing suitable for my pet?
Scenario One: Moving away from conventional vaccination
- 3-4 months old: First and second puppy vaccines
- 1 year 4 months old: First annual booster (1 year after second initial vaccine)
- 4 years 4 months old: First titre test (3 years after initial vaccines)
- Positive → annual titre test
- Negative → vaccinate and retest in 3 years
Scenario Two: Minimal vaccination
- 3-4 months old: First and second puppy vaccines
- 1 year 4 months old: First titre test (1 year after initial vaccines)
- Positive → annual titre test
- Negative → vaccinate and retest in 3 years
Scenario Three: Extremely Minimal Vaccinations
- 4 months old: Only initial puppy vaccine
- Puppy must be kept away from unknown dogs and public spaces until titre tested
- 5 months old: First titre test (1 month after initial vaccine)
- Positive → no re-vaccination required
- Negative → re-vaccinate and retest in 3 years
Guidance
For guidance on safe socialisation of partially vaccinated puppies (Scenario 3), or if you’re unsure which scenario fits your dog, please consult your primary vet or contact us to book a 10-min tele-consult with one of our holistic vets.
What can titre testing help with?
Titre testing helps you determine whether your dog still has protection against Distemper, Hepatitis, and Parvovirus (DHP). reducing unnecessary vaccinations and associated stress.
It is especially useful for:
- Dogs who have had their initial puppy vaccines
- Dogs receiving minimal or tailored vaccination protocols
- Dogs with chronic conditions or sensitivities to vaccines
How much does titre testing cost?
Titre Testing at Holistic Vet Care is £95. This includes your appointment in clinic, laboratory work, and reporting.
Claiming insurance
Many pet insurance providers now offer cover for complementary and holistic therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and laser therapy. However, we recommend checking what is included in your plan as cover varies between policies. Please bear in mind that all consultations, treatments, and herbal prescriptions must be paid for at the time. We will then help you claim back from your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
What is titre testing?
Many owners choose titre testing as an alternative to routine vaccination, helping to avoid unnecessary boosters where appropriate.
The test is carried out in clinic by one of our vets before being sent to an external laboratory and involves a vial of blood being drawn from your dog.
Does a positive titre test guarantee protection?
A positive titre test indicates that your dog has circulating antibodies against Distemper, Hepatitis, and Parvovirus, suggesting that their immune system has responded to vaccination and is likely to be protected.
However, no test or vaccine can offer a 100% guarantee of protection. Immunity is complex and influenced by many factors, including overall health, age, and immune function. Titre testing provides useful information to guide vaccination decisions, but it should always be considered alongside your dog’s individual circumstances and veterinary advice.
Will my insurance accept titre testing?
Many pet insurance providers will cover, or partially cover, titre testing, however this depends on your individual policy and insurer. Some insurers accept a positive titre test as evidence of immunity, while others may still require routine vaccination to maintain full cover.
We always recommend checking directly with your insurance company before proceeding, particularly if titre testing is being used in place of routine vaccination. If needed, we can provide supporting documentation outlining the test performed and the results.
Get in touch
Where are we located?
Suite A, Blisworth Marina, Blisworth, Northampton, NN7 3FG.
We are located just outside of Blisworth, between Northampton and Towcester. Our clinic is at the Blisworth Marina, providing a peaceful, relaxing setting, with ample parking.
