Vaccinating your dog not only protects their health but also helps to keep other dogs safe. For example, unvaccinated dogs are more likely to contract and spread diseases. In addition, depending on where you live, they may be required by law to have a current rabies vaccination.
Vaccinating your dog is one of the best things you can do to ensure their health and safety, as well as that of other dogs and in some cases, humans. Here, you can learn all about these shots and how they promote your pet’s well-being.
How Do Doggy Vaccines Work?
When a dog is vaccinated, its body is exposed to a weakened or inactive form of a virus or bacteria. As a result, the dog’s immune system produces antibodies to fight off the infection.
The next time the dog is exposed to the virus or bacteria, its immune system can recognize it and quickly destroy it. Vaccines help to protect against some of the most common and deadly diseases that dogs can contract and can also help to reduce the severity of other diseases, such as kennel cough.
If you’re worried about having to pay for these shots, pet insurance is a great way to get certain costs covered. Here, you pay a monthly premium and get coverage for shots, emergency surgeries, and various unexpected medical services.
4 Mandatory Core Vaccines for Dogs
Although laws differ according to state, these are the core vaccines required for dogs, both big and small:
Rabies
Rabies is a virus that attacks the central nervous system. The virus is usually transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, but it can also be transmitted through contact with infected saliva or tissue. Symptoms of rabies include fever, headache, muscle aches, and weakness.
The virus can also cause seizures, paralysis, and eventually death. Rabies shots are the best prevention method for this life-threatening (often fatal) condition. While some rabies shots are effective for up to three years, some areas require dogs to be vaccinated annually.
Canine Distemper
Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs of all ages. The virus is most spread through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as saliva, blood, or urine. It can also be transmitted through the air, making it especially important for owners who frequent dog parks to keep their dogs vaccinated.
Symptoms of canine distemper include fever, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, eye discharge, and lethargy. In severe cases, the virus can cause seizures and paralysis. If your dog shows any signs of illness, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately. With prompt treatment, many dogs recover from canine distemper but if left untreated, can result in death.
Canine Hepatitis
Canine hepatitis is a serious viral infection that affects dogs of all ages. The virus is spread through contact with infected bodily fluids, and it can cause severe liver damage. Symptoms of canine hepatitis include fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and jaundice.
If left untreated, the virus can lead to death. Treatment for canine hepatitis typically includes a course of antiviral medication. Canine hepatitis is a serious disease, but it is also preventable with vaccines.
Parvovirus
Parvo affects the gastrointestinal systems of young dogs and puppies. It is highly contagious and often fatal without treatment. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Parvovirus, but treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the dog’s body while it fights the infection. With early detection and treatment, many dogs are able to recover from this condition. And good news! It’s totally safe to adopt a puppy or young dog who has recovered from Parvo.
Optional Vaccines for Dogs
Not all states require these vaccines, but it is always better to be safe than sorry! You may choose to vaccinate your dog against:
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. Lyme disease can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fever, rash, joint pain, and fatigue.
If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to serious health complications, such as neurological problems and heart problems. Lyme disease is a serious condition that should be treated promptly with antibiotics.
Bordetella
Bordetella is a genus of bacteria that can cause respiratory infections in dogs and other animals. Bordetella bacteria are typically spread through close contact with an infected dog, and they can cause a range of symptoms including fever, coughing, and runny nose.
In severe cases, Bordetella infections can lead to pneumonia or death. However, there are vaccines available that can protect against Bordetella infections.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a serious and potentially fatal disease that can affect both dogs and humans. Dogs can become infected if they drink contaminated water or encounter contaminated soil. Symptoms of leptospirosis include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
If left untreated, the disease can lead to kidney failure, liver failure, and even death. Thankfully, leptospirosis is preventable through vaccination. All dogs should be vaccinated against the disease, especially if they live in areas where the bacteria is common. In addition, owners should avoid letting their dogs drink from stagnant pools of water or play in muddy areas.
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can spread like wildfire through groups of dogs. Symptoms include a deep, harsh cough that can make breathing difficult for your dog. In severe cases, the disease can lead to pneumonia and even death. While there is no surefire way to prevent your dog from contracting kennel cough, vaccinating them is the best way to reduce their risk.
How Often Does My Dog Need Vaccines?
The general vaccination schedule for puppies is as follows:
6 to 8 weeks
Core: Distemper, hepatitis (sometimes called DHPP), and parvovirus (collectively called DAP)
Optional: Bordetella and parainfluenza
10 to 12 weeks
Core: DAP
Optional: Lyme, leptospirosis, canine influenza
14 to 16 weeks
Core: DAP + rabies
Optional: Lyme, leptospirosis, and canine influenza
After you’ve taken care of your puppy’s vaccinations, you’re good to go until it’s time for their annual booster which should be given one year after their initial shots.
It would be best to consult with your veterinarian on your pooch’s vaccination schedule.
