Dog Vaccinations 101

You should always ensure that your dog stays in good health with nutritious food and exercise, and the proper vaccinations, whether they are a first-year puppy or getting a booster later in life.

Dogs can be vulnerable to several types of infections and diseases. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) categorizes the vaccinations for these diseases in two parts: core and non-core. Core vaccinations are recommended for all dog and puppy breeds. Non-core vaccinations are determined by where the dog lives and its lifestyle.

Let's break down some of these categories' most common dog vaccines.

Core Vaccinations

Rabies Vaccine

Dogs can contract rabies viral disease through saliva from infected animals such as skunks, raccoons, or coyotes. The rabies vaccine is usually given to a first-year puppy as early as 12 weeks from birth. Your dog usually needs a booster shot one year and three years later.

DHPP Vaccine

This vaccine is given to dogs for distemper, a virus affecting dogs' respiratory and nervous systems. It can cause coughing, sneezing, vomiting, and neurological problems. A typical age for a puppy to receive this vaccine is 10-12 weeks.

Parvovirus Vaccine

Parvovirus is a very contagious virus that can infect all dogs where it can, cause a loss of appetite, extreme dehydration, and attacks on the gastrointestinal system. The virus has the potential to kill a dog within 48 to 72 hours, so you must seek veterinary attention immediately. It is recommended that your dog receives this vaccination within 6 to 8 weeks from birth.

Non-Core Vaccinations

Bordetella Vaccine

This vaccine protects dogs from Bordetella or kennel cough. Dogs will suffer from excessive coughing, vomiting, and a loss of appetite. This disease can occur when a dog spends a lot of time in a communal area with other dogs. Your dog can get this vaccination as early as 6-8 weeks.

Influenza Vaccine

Canine influenza is a very contagious virus, and like kennel cough, it spreads in communal areas. However, influenza is not as common as Bordetella, parainfluenza, or CAV-2. The age recommended to receive this shot is 10-12 weeks.

Lyme Vaccine

This vaccine is given to dogs to treat them for Lyme disease. While a dog should always have flea and tick prevention medications, the Lyme vaccine will protect the dog even further from infection. Lyme disease symptoms include inflammation, fever, sensitivity to touch, and labored breathing. A dog can receive the vaccination for Lyme disease at 16-18 weeks.

These are some of the core and non-core vaccinations that can be given to your dog to keep them safe and healthy. However, there are other vaccinations available, and they each include a different schedule.

We hope that the information in this blog can help you stay on track with your dog's health, so your pet can have a long-lasting life. Reach out to us if you have any questions!