Australian pet parents will soon have an easier way to check their dogs’ immunity—no needles, no guessing. Homegrown wellness brand 5 Hounds is hitting the road with the country’s first Titre Test Roadshow, bringing in-clinic antibody testing to Sydney this weekend.
The initiative comes as more Australians reconsider the “one-size-fits-all” approach to pet healthcare. More than 500 dogs are already booked in for tests, reflecting a growing appetite for science-led, personalised care.
“Titre testing isn’t about skipping vaccines,” explains 5 Hounds founder and veterinarian Dr Will Maginness. “Vaccination is essential to protect against serious diseases. It’s about testing first—measuring immunity—so we can vaccinate when needed, not just because the calendar says so.”
What Is Titre Testing?
A titre test involves a small blood sample to measure antibody levels against core canine diseases—parvovirus, distemper and adenovirus (hepatitis). The results show whether a dog is still protected or due for a booster.
Research from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) supports this targeted approach, advising that after a dog’s initial vaccines and first yearly booster, additional doses shouldn’t be given more than every three years unless risk factors change.
In a 5 Hounds pilot clinic last year, only three out of 510 dogs tested showed low enough antibodies to warrant a booster.
“That doesn’t mean dogs don’t need vaccines,” says Dr Will. “It just shows immunity often lasts longer than we think. Titre testing helps us make better, individualised decisions—it’s about informed prevention, not blanket rules.”
Connecting The Gut & Immune System
5 Hounds is best known for its holistic health model, which pairs veterinary science with fresh nutrition. The brand’s meal plans are designed around species-appropriate, lightly cooked recipes—an approach backed by research showing up to 70% of immune cells are linked to the gut.
By combining diagnostic tools and proper nutrition, Dr Will says pet owners can take a more active role in their dog’s long-term health. “The immune system is interconnected,” he adds. “What goes into the bowl matters as much as what’s in the syringe.”
Where To Find The Roadshow
The Titre Test Roadshow continues through March, with pop-up clinics in:
- Brisbane: 14th March, Dogs Queensland, Durack (9am–3pm)
- Sydney: 15th March, Dogs NSW, Orchard Hills (9am–3pm)
- Melbourne: 21st March, 27A Cameron St, Brunswick (9am–4pm)
The testing costs $150 for non-subscribers, while 5 Hounds subscribers test for free. Bookings can be made online at their website.
For anyone uncertain whether titre testing is right for their pet, the 5 Hounds team can be contacted here.
In dog care dominated by habit, this roadshow brings science and choice back to routine vet visits.
