Vaccination Protocols in Canine Shelters in Northern Italy: A Survey of Current Practices

Vaccination is a fundamental tool for the prevention and control of infectious diseases in canine shelters, where high population density and frequent animal turnover increase the risk of pathogen transmission. However, in Italy there is currently no unified regulatory framework governing vaccination protocols for shelter dogs. In this context, the aim of this study was to evaluate vaccination protocols and preventive health practices adopted in canine shelters in the province of Bologna (Northern Italy). Data were collected through on-site visits and review of institutional documentation and collection of information from shelter personnel using a structured data collection instrument designed to gather information on vaccination protocols, vaccine types, administration intervals, epidemiological history of the facilities, and preventive measures. Additionally, vaccination records from a sample of dogs in each shelter were examined to compare the protocols formally adopted with the vaccinations actually administered. The analysis revealed substantial heterogeneity among shelters in the vaccination protocols applied, largely reflecting the professional discretion of veterinary practitioners. Furthermore, several inconsistencies and errors in vaccination schedules were identified, which may compromise immunological protection within the shelter population. These findings underline the importance of implementing standardized vaccination protocols tailored to the local epidemiological context to improve disease prevention and health management in canine shelters.