Dog Vaccines

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Vaccinations are a crucial part of responsible dog ownership, protecting your furry friend from a range of potentially deadly and highly contagious diseases. They work by exposing your dog’s immune system to a weakened or inactive form of a virus or bacteria, triggering the production of antibodies. These antibodies then remain in the system, ready to fight off the real disease should your dog ever encounter it.

There are two main categories of dog vaccines: core and non-core. Core vaccines are considered essential for all dogs, regardless of their lifestyle or geographical location. These vaccines protect against diseases that are widespread, highly contagious, and often fatal. The core vaccines typically include:

Distemper: A highly contagious viral disease affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Symptoms can range from fever and coughing to seizures and paralysis.
Adenovirus (Hepatitis): Canine adenovirus type 1 causes infectious canine hepatitis, affecting the liver, kidneys, eyes, and blood vessels.
Parvovirus: A highly contagious viral disease that causes severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, particularly dangerous for puppies.
Parainfluenza: One of the viruses that contribute to kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory illness.
Rabies: A fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system and can be transmitted to humans. Rabies vaccination is often legally mandated.

Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your dog’s individual risk factors, such as lifestyle, geographic location, and exposure to other dogs. Your veterinarian will help you determine which non-core vaccines are appropriate for your dog. Common non-core vaccines include:

Bordetella: A common cause of kennel cough. Often recommended for dogs that frequent boarding facilities, dog parks, or grooming salons.
Leptospirosis: A bacterial disease spread through contaminated water and urine, affecting the kidneys and liver. Recommended for dogs who spend time outdoors, especially near water sources.
Lyme Disease: A bacterial disease transmitted by ticks, causing joint pain, fever, and lethargy. Recommended for dogs in areas with a high tick population.
Canine Influenza: A highly contagious respiratory virus, similar to human influenza. Recommended for dogs who frequent boarding facilities, dog parks, or other areas where they’re exposed to many dogs.

Puppies typically receive a series of vaccinations starting around 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters given every 3-4 weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. This is because puppies receive antibodies from their mother, which can interfere with the vaccine’s effectiveness. The series of boosters ensures that the puppy develops its own immunity. Adult dogs typically require booster shots every 1-3 years, depending on the vaccine and local regulations.

While vaccines are generally safe, some dogs may experience mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or lethargy. These side effects are usually temporary and resolve within a day or two. In rare cases, more serious allergic reactions can occur. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, such as facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or hives.

Regular veterinary checkups are essential to ensure your dog receives the appropriate vaccinations and stays healthy. Your veterinarian can assess your dog’s risk factors and create a personalized vaccination schedule to protect them from preventable diseases.