Dog Vaccinations
Proper immunity from common diseases that dogs may come in contact with is one of the cornerstones of excellent preventative care. The type of vaccination(s) your dog will receive depends on his or her lifestyle. There are core vaccines that are recommended for most dogs regardless of where they go/what they do, and these are DA2PP (commonly called “distemper”) and Rabies. Other vaccines may be required, and these depend on where you plan to take your pet. An example of an additional protection would be the Bordetella vaccine (commonly called “Kennel Cough”) which your dog will need if you are planning to send them to doggie daycare or boarding. Beginning at eight weeks of age, puppies are vaccinated in a series of 3 appointments, with each appointment being 3-4 weeks apart. The vaccines given at these appointments depend on what you expect your dog’s lifestyle to include. Please speak with your veterinary health care team to determine what vaccines will help keep your pooch protected!
What types of vaccinations do you offer for adult dogs?
The most common vaccines administered to dogs are the “Distemper” vaccine (a combination vaccine that protects against multiple viruses) and the Rabies vaccine. Other vaccines are available and are suggested based on your pets’ expected lifestyle. The most common additional vaccines include Bordetella, Leptospirosis, and Lyme. Bordetella (AKA “Kennel Cough”) is a required vaccine at most doggie daycares, boarding facilities, and groomers as Kennel Cough is a highly infectious, airborne bacteria that spread quickly in areas where dogs come in close contact or share a common space. Leptospirosis is a bacteria that leads to kidney and liver disease in pets. Leptospirosis has the additional concern of being a “zoonotic” disease which means it can be transferred to humans. Lepto infects us through contact with infected bodily fluids such as urine, or via contact with contaminated soil. Finally, the Lyme vaccine is available for dogs and is of particular interest to owners whose dogs are high risk such as those who frequent tick-infested areas. The tick population is growing each year rapidly, this means even urban dogs are in danger. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s lifestyle and whether or not Bordetella, Leptospirosis, or Lyme vaccination is right for them.
Is there a schedule for how often to vaccinate a dog?
Your dog’s vaccination schedule will vary depending on the vaccines being administered. Every puppy should receive a complete series of booster vaccinations, typically beginning at eight weeks of age and lasting through three visits, each one 3-4 weeks apart. One year from the last puppy booster your dog will need to be re-vaccinated. After the first “annual” vaccination the frequency of re-vaccination will depend on the type of vaccines your dog is receiving. Regardless of what vaccines you and your vet have decided to be the right fit, annual physical exams are the single most important step from a preventative health care standpoint for your pet. Remember, your dog’s vet is their GP, Dentist, Surgeon, Nutritionist, Cardiologist, and more! Every year in your dogs’ life is like 7 of yours, and a lot can change in 7 years.
Why is it important to vaccinate your dog?
Keeping your dog up-to-date on vaccinations will protect them, other dogs they come in contact with, your family, and your community. Annual visits are about so much more than vaccines. Did you know that every time your dog is vaccinated they receive a physical exam and this gives your vet an opportunity to assess their overall health and put you on the right track if a disease is suspected?
How much do dog vaccinations cost?
The cost of vaccination varies depending on what vaccines are being administered. Please give us a call to find out more about vaccinating your dog.
