Thinking about vaccinating your furry friend but not sure how to go about it? Don't worry, we've got everything you need to know about dog vaccinations here!
What exactly are dog vaccinations?
A vaccination involves administering an injection to a dog with the aim of stimulating its immune system to produce antibodies targeted against particular infections. By introducing a safe and weakened version of the virus or bacteria responsible for the disease, we enable the dog's body to generate a defensive reaction without exposing it to the harmful form of the illness. Once the dog has successfully responded to the vaccine, it will develop immunity, offering protection if it encounters the virus or bacteria at a later stage in life.
Why should I have my dog vaccinated?
There are several very good reasons to have your dog vaccinated:
- It could save your dog's life: some of the diseases dog vaccinations protect against are fatal – and certainly hard to treat.
- It's good for the whole puppy community: if every owner vaccinates their animals, dogs will acquire herd immunity. If each dog is better protected, diseases are less likely to spread – which means all pooches benefit, including yours.
- Vaccinating your dog is cheaper than treating it: even if you have pet insurance, you might still have to pay an excess if your dog gets sick. Depending on your policy, you may not be covered for treatment for an illness you chose not to vaccinate against as it could be classed as preventable.
What are the types of dog vaccinations?
- Canine Parvovirus
- Canine Distemper
- Hepatitis
- Rabies
These vaccinations are deemed crucial for all dogs due to the universal risk of exposure, the severity of the diseases involved, and the potential for transmission to other dogs as well as other animal species, including human beings.
Are vaccinations required by law?
When to start vaccinations?
Generally, it is recommended to initiate a puppy's vaccination schedule as soon as you get the puppy (which is typically around 6 to 8 weeks of age). Vaccinations should then be administered every three weeks until the puppy reaches approximately four months old, at which point it will receive the final set of vaccines. Typically, if the puppy's mother has a healthy immune system, it will likely receive antibodies through the mother's milk during nursing. And once the puppy is weaned off the mother's milk, vaccination procedures should begin.
What is the recommended vaccination schedule for puppies?
It is typically recommended to follow this vaccination schedule for puppies:
- 6-10 weeks: DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus & parainfluenza), Kennel Cough
- 11-14 weeks: DHPP, Leptospirosis, Canine Influenza, Lyme Disease
- 15-16 weeks: DHPP, Leptospirosis, Canine Influenza, Lyme Disease, Rabies
Note: Canine influenza and lyme disease vaccines are given depending on the lifestyle of the dog. Consult with your veterinarian for advice.
What is the recommended vaccination schedule for dogs?
Once your puppy reaches adulthood and has received all the necessary core puppy vaccines, your veterinarian can start establishing an adult dog vaccination schedule. This schedule involves periodic adult boosters, which include the same type of DHPP vaccine given to puppies, along with additional vaccines.
During your dog's first one-year visit, it is recommended to administer boosters for DHPP, Leptospirosis, and Rabies vaccines. Depending on the dog's lifestyle, vaccines for Canine Influenza and Lyme disease may also be necessary. If your dog is due for the Kennel Cough (Bordetella) vaccine, it should be administered at this time as well.
How long are the vaccinations effective for?
- DHPP - 3 years
- Rabies - 3 years
- Leptospirosis - 1 year
- Canine Influenza - 1 year
- Lyme Disease - 1 year
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough) - 6 months
Are there any side effects or risks that come with vaccinations?
The benefits of vaccinations far outweigh any risks, and adverse reactions to dog vaccines are very rare. However, As with any medication or immunization protocol, puppy vaccinations and dog vaccinations have the potential to pose some side effects.It is advisable to schedule the vaccination for your puppy or dog at a time when you can closely observe them afterward.
As with human vaccines, mild symptoms such as fever and decrease in appetite can be disregarded when it comes to puppy or dog vaccines. The majority of reactions are mild and short lived. However, if you notice more severe reactions like facial swelling, vomiting, or lethargy, it is crucial to seek veterinary assistance immediately.
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