Kalle Oakes’ recent columns about the rabies vaccine controversy call to mind our own misadventure. This office was sending annual reminders that our dogs were “due” for their rabies shots, which we dutifully obliged.

The unnecessary frequency of these shots escaped notice as we juggled myriad family appointments and schedules. When we eventually caught the discrepancy between the state’s required bi-annual vaccine and our annual call for it, this veterinary practice could provide no reasonable explanation. The office attendant did mumble something about protecting these “outdoor” dogs, though at the time we had a dachshund unhappy being outdoors for any reason and a golden retriever with all the outdoor enthusiasm of a door mat. We quickly switched practices, but it wasn’t long before a tumor was discovered in our golden retriever at the site of the vaccinations.

Now we are learning, thanks to Mr. Oakes (May 5) and the research by activist Kris Christine, that our dogs were receiving not twice, but three times the number of rabies vaccinations actually necessary and that, in fact, 46 other states have regulated these shots to three year intervals.

One is left to wonder why, knowing the danger to the animals and the effectiveness of fewer vaccinations, there would be any opposition to bringing Maine in line with the rest of the nation on this issue.

Now excuse me while I try to convince the “vet” that our golden retriever is mellow by nature and will not require thyroid treatments.

Diane G. Mawhinney, Auburn

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