What vaccines should my dog get? - briefly
Core vaccines for dogs include those protecting against distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), and parvovirus (DAPP or DHPP). Non-core vaccines depend on your dog's lifestyle and location, such as Bordetella (kennel cough) for dogs in boarding facilities or rabies for dogs in endemic areas. Always consult with a veterinarian to determine the most suitable vaccine schedule for your pet.
What vaccines should my dog get? - in detail
Vaccinating your dog is crucial for maintaining their health and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Here's an in-depth look at the essential vaccines every dog should receive:
Core Vaccines
Core vaccines are considered vital for all dogs due to the severity and prevalence of the diseases they protect against. The core vaccines include:
1. Distemper, Adenovirus (Hepatitis), and Parvovirus (DAPP or DA2PP)
- Distemper: A highly contagious virus that affects a dog's respiratory and nervous systems. It can be fatal if not treated promptly.
- Adenovirus (Hepatitis): Causes liver failure and other serious health issues.
- Parvovirus: Highly contagious and often fatal, this virus targets the intestinal tract and immune system of puppies and unvaccinated dogs.
These vaccines are typically administered together in a single shot, commonly known as the DAPP or DA2PP vaccine. Puppies should receive their first dose at 6-8 weeks old, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until they reach 16 weeks of age. Adult dogs require boosters every 1-3 years, depending on the specific vaccine used and your veterinarian's recommendation.
2. Rabies
- Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the nervous system. It is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans.
- Puppies should receive their first rabies vaccine at 12 weeks old, followed by a booster one year later. After that, boosters are typically given every 1-3 years depending on local regulations and your veterinarian's advice.
Non-Core Vaccines
Non-core vaccines are recommended based on the dog's lifestyle, location, and risk of exposure to specific diseases. These include:
1. Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
- Bordetella is a bacterium that causes kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection common in environments where dogs are housed together, such as boarding facilities, dog parks, and grooming salons.
- This vaccine can be given intranasally (through the nose) or by injection. It is typically administered annually or as recommended by your veterinarian based on the dog's exposure risk.
2. Leptospirosis
- Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can cause kidney and liver damage. It is often found in areas with stagnant water, such as ponds, marshes, and rivers.
- This vaccine is usually given as part of the DHPP or DA2PP combination (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis) and requires an initial booster followed by annual boosters.
3. Lyme Disease
- Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium transmitted through tick bites and can lead to arthritis and kidney problems in dogs.
- The vaccine for Lyme disease is typically given as two doses, three weeks apart, followed by annual boosters. However, it should be noted that while the vaccine provides some protection, it does not guarantee complete immunity against Lyme disease. Preventative measures such as tick control and regular tick checks are also important.
4. Canine Influenza (Dog Flu)
- Canine influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system of dogs. It is spread through direct contact, coughing, and sneezing.
- The vaccine for canine influenza requires two doses given 2-4 weeks apart, followed by annual boosters or as recommended by your veterinarian based on the dog's risk of exposure.
Conclusion
Vaccinating your dog is a proactive measure to protect their health and the well-being of other animals and humans in their environment. While core vaccines are essential for all dogs, non-core vaccines should be administered based on individual risk factors and lifestyle. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best vaccine schedule tailored to your dog's specific needs.