How is the Eurican vaccine administered to dogs? - briefly
The Eurican vaccine for dogs is typically administered by subcutaneous injection into the loose skin on the neck or between the shoulder blades. It is crucial that the vaccine be given by a veterinary professional to ensure proper administration and minimize potential adverse reactions.
How is the Eurican vaccine administered to dogs? - in detail
The Eurican vaccine, developed by Merial (now part of Boehringer Ingelheim), is a polyvalent inactivated vaccine designed to protect dogs against distemper and adenovirus type 2 (hepatitis). The administration of this vaccine involves several steps to ensure its effectiveness and the safety of the dog.
Firstly, it is crucial to store the Eurican vaccine appropriately before administration. It should be kept in a refrigerator at temperatures between 2°C and 8°C. Exposing the vaccine to extreme temperatures can compromise its potency. Therefore, veterinarians must ensure that the vaccine has been stored correctly before use.
Prior to administering the Eurican vaccine, a thorough examination of the dog is necessary. This includes assessing the dog's overall health, checking for any signs of illness or allergic reactions, and verifying that the dog is at least 7 weeks old, as recommended by the manufacturer. Younger puppies may not develop adequate immunity from the vaccine.
The Eurican vaccine is typically administered via subcutaneous injection. The most common sites for this type of injection in dogs are the skin folds on the back of the neck or between the shoulder blades. Veterinarians should use a sterile needle and syringe to minimize the risk of infection. It is essential to inject the vaccine into the subcutaneous tissue, not the muscle or intravenously, to ensure its effectiveness.
The dosage of the Eurican vaccine depends on the dog's age and weight. For puppies under 12 weeks old, a single dose of 1 mL is recommended. For dogs over 12 weeks old, a single dose of 2 mL is typically administered. Veterinarians should consult the package insert for specific dosage recommendations based on the dog's age and weight.
After administering the vaccine, veterinarians must monitor the dog for any adverse reactions. Although rare, some dogs may experience mild side effects such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or swelling at the injection site. In case of severe reactions like difficulty breathing, hives, or facial swelling, immediate veterinary care is required.
Following the initial vaccination, a booster shot is recommended 2 to 4 weeks later to ensure optimal protection against distemper and adenovirus type 2. Subsequent boosters should be administered annually or as advised by the veterinarian based on the dog's risk factors and local disease prevalence.
In conclusion, the administration of the Eurican vaccine to dogs involves careful storage, thorough pre-vaccination examination, precise injection technique, appropriate dosage calculation, post-vaccination monitoring, and timely booster shots. By following these steps, veterinarians can effectively protect dogs against distemper and adenovirus type 2 while ensuring their safety and well-being.