What are titers?
A titer is a test used to measure the presence and quantity of antibodies in blood against a particular type of tissue, cell, or substance. Blood is drawn from a vein and levels of antibodies in the blood are measured. The antibody level in the blood is a reflection of the body’s past experience or exposure to an antigen, or something that the body does not recognize as part of itself. Every living cell has different protein markers on its surface called antigens and the body’s immune system identifies those cells that are not part of its structure by those surface proteins. The test will indicate that the body has come into contact with a particular antigen. This procedure is used in research and in the development of vaccines to prove their efficacy. Just recently, veterinarians have begun to use these tests as a means to check the level of immune system antibodies in canines. Owners are encouraged have titers in place of giving annual shots. Vaccines and the companies who make them.
