Keeping your dog healthy is one of your responsibilities as a proud dog owner. Failure to take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups, examinations, and vaccinations can leave your dog vulnerable to serious illnesses. Learning all about dog vaccinations, the when and why, can often be confusing for owners. Here are some of the diseases vaccinations can protect your dog from, and when you need to see the vet for dog vaccinations.
Prevent Diseases with Dog Vaccinations
Rabies Vaccine This vaccine is mandatory in most states. It will protect humans and animals from being infected by the rabies virus. This deadly virus will infect the nervous system, which can lead to fatalities if not prevented. It is common among animals that are bitten by another animal or rodent infected with the virus. A dog will need an initial rabies vaccine around 16 weeks of age, and every three years after that. This dog shot can lead to serious fines if your dog is found by Animal Control Services, and is not current with their vaccination.
Canine Distemper Vaccine The canine distemper virus is spread through infected body fluids and through the air. The lymph system will be attacked initially before it moves to the nervous, respiratory, and gastrointestinal system. Depending upon the breed, and the preference of the veterinarian, a dog will be given the canine distemper vaccine every one to three years. Most veterinary offices will administer the canine distemper vaccine in a single dose called DHPP. This dog vaccination will contain parainfluenza, parvovirus, and hepatitis with the distemper vaccine.
Bordetella Vaccine This vaccine is used to protect a dog against pneumonia. It does not prevent kennel cough as the parainfluenza vaccine is used to prevent against kennel cough. It is not considered a core vaccine, so owners can choose to have this vaccine administered or avoid it. This dog shot is recommended as kennel cough is highly contagious, and normally leads to pneumonia. If you board your dog, or leave it with other dogs while you go away on vacation, it is wise to get this vaccine to prevent your dog from getting ill. This vaccination should be given every six to twelve months.
Canine Hepatitis This virus will lead to liver damage if it is not prevented. It is a core vaccine and normally administered with the DHPP vaccine.
Parvovirus Vaccine This is another core vaccine used to prevent against canine parvovirus. This virus can live in shoes, toys, bedding, floors, and other surfaces for several months. This dog vaccination is given as part of the DHPP shot.
Lyme Disease Vaccine Humans and dogs are at-risk for Lyme disease. It is caused through tick bites. If you live in an area where ticks are common, or you are taking your dog on vacation to an area with ticks, it is recommended to get this vaccine.
Obtaining the right dog vaccines will help to prevent your dog from serious illnesses. While rabies is the only required vaccine by-law, it is still important to speak to your vet about the other dog vaccinations and how they can help your dog to remain healthy.
Learn more about how to prevent pet diseases with vaccinations and find out here what you need to know about vaccinations.
