What vaccinations does my dog need and why are they important?
That's a great question. There are two different categories that I like to use when talking about vaccinations. The first category is what we call the core vaccines, which are the ones that every dog should have regardless of any type of lifestyle or other external factors. The core vaccines for dogs are DHPP, Bordetella, and rabies. DHPP stands for distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. This vaccine protects against several diseases that are likely fatal if your dog is infected. Bordetella is the vaccine that protects against kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease that can develop into pneumonia if it becomes severe, especially affecting young puppies. Lastly, the rabies vaccine protects against rabies, a rapidly progressive and fatal neurologic disease that can be transferred to humans. This is why the rabies vaccine is required by law, not only to protect your dogs but also to protect people. The second category of vaccines is the non-core vaccines, which are considered optional, and we recommend some over others depending on each dog's specific lifestyle. These vaccines include Leptospirosis, Lyme, and flu. The Lepto vaccine protects against leptospirosis, a bacteria that can be spread through the urine of wild animals and has been known to contaminate lakes, ponds, and even standing water or puddles. However, the lepto vaccine is now being required by us as a core vaccine. Lyme is a bacterial disease that can be spread through tick bites and can impact the joints, blood clotting properties, and in some cases, even harm the kidneys. The flu vaccine protects against influenza, a respiratory disease that can cause the development of pneumonia when severe. While not required, all of the non-core vaccines should at least be considered, depending on your dog's particular lifestyle.
Are vaccines for dogs really safe?
Yes, vaccines are generally safe for your dog, and the benefits really outweigh the potential risks of being infected with certain fatal diseases. Vaccinating your dog is a crucial step in protecting their health and well-being.
Are there any risks or side effects to vaccinations?
Yes, that's a great question. We get that all the time. With everything, there's always some calculated risk with any vaccination. Some dogs can experience mild side effects, including localized swelling, lethargy, and fever, which are usually short-lived and resolve quickly. However, some dogs can have severe allergic reactions or even anaphylaxis, which are generally rare but more likely with certain vaccines. Even though vaccine reactions can be scary, they can be managed and treated by your primary veterinarian. There is no way to know which dog will have a vaccine reaction and which will not, but some are more susceptible than others. It is important to monitor your dog closely after vaccination to spot these reactions and address them early.
At what age should my dog need or receive its first vaccinations?
Puppies can receive their first vaccinations between the ages of six and eight weeks old. These vaccines usually include the DHPP and Bordetella vaccine. Other vaccines like canine flu, lepto, Lyme, and rabies can all be started between the ages of 10 and 12 weeks.
How often will my dog need booster shots?
After your puppy's first vaccines at six to eight weeks, it's recommended to booster the DHPP every two weeks until they're about 16 weeks of age. If your puppy is over 16 weeks old, then two vaccines 3 to 4 weeks apart are usually recommended. However, rabies is the only exception, and your dog is considered protected 24 hours after the first initial vaccination. All other lifestyle vaccines, including lepto, Lyme, and flu, are a two-shot series that should be given 3 to 4 weeks apart. After the initial series of any vaccination, it's recommended to booster each of those annually.
Should my dog get vaccinated for Lyme disease?
Since Lyme is considered a non-core vaccination, it depends on your dog's lifestyle as to whether or not they should be vaccinated against Lyme disease. If your dog tends to go hiking, spends a lot of time outdoors, and lives in forest-surrounded areas, then the Lyme vaccine may be recommended. Lyme disease is carried by ticks, and the first step to protect your dog is by ensuring you are utilizing diligent monthly flea and tick prevention like Bravecto, Nexgard, or Seresto. However, just missing one monthly dose can expose your dog to this infection. If you are one to forget, it may be a good idea to vaccinate your dog against Lyme just in case.
What are the symptoms of an adverse reaction to a vaccine?
If your dog is having an adverse reaction to a vaccine, you may notice symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, facial swelling, or hives. If you see any of these symptoms after your dog has received a vaccine, you should seek veterinary care immediately. These adverse reactions generally occur within the first 6 to 8 hours after the vaccine, but they can happen up to 3 days after the initial series. If you're questioning if your dog is having a vaccine reaction, please reach out to your primary veterinarian for guidance.
Will my dog be sick after their vaccination?
It's rare, but it is possible that your dog can get sick after a vaccine, especially if they have many vaccines given all at once. It's best to work with your primary veterinarian to decide on a good vaccination schedule for your individual dog to reduce the risk of illness after vaccines.
Can my dog be vaccinated if they're sick or on a medication?
If your dog is currently sick, it's generally not advised to vaccinate at that time. However, in some cases, a rabies vaccine can be given as it is the only one required by law. All other vaccines, including rabies, stimulate the immune system, and if it's compromised or weakened by disease, the body may not mount the appropriate response to the pathogen in the future, making the vaccine ineffective and possibly requiring readministration. Additionally, certain medications, including immunosuppressants like steroids and some cancer treatments, can interfere with your dog's ability to mount a reaction to the vaccines. Make sure you inform your veterinarian of your dog's health status and any medications they may be receiving prior to vaccines.
What is kennel cough and should my dog be vaccinated against it?
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease characterized by a persistent hacking cough. It's caused by a combination of different viruses and bacteria, with the most common pathogen being Bordetella bronchiseptica, which is why it's called the Bordetella vaccine. Kennel cough is usually not severe and can spontaneously resolve without treatment in most cases. But if your dog is young or a puppy, it can lead to complications like pneumonia and even death. All dogs should be vaccinated against kennel cough to help reduce the spread to others, especially if they go to groomers, dog parks, doggy daycares, and are around other dogs.
Is the canine influenza vaccine necessary for my dog?
Canine influenza is another respiratory pathogen similar to kennel cough, and dogs generally recover within a couple of weeks. However, it can lead to pneumonia, especially in immunocompromised patients, young, and old. The same environmental risk factors as for kennel cough, including groomers, dog parks, and doggy daycares, can increase your dog's risk. In these cases, the influenza vaccine should be considered.
Can vaccinations be harmful if my dog is pregnant?
Yes, vaccines, especially live vaccines, can pose a risk and cause harm to unborn puppies and cause complications during pregnancy. Abortion and even absorption of puppies within the uterus can occur. If you know or think your dog is pregnant, please inform your veterinarian prior to pursuing any vaccinations.
How much do dog vaccines cost?
Vaccine prices vary and can range from $15 to $100, depending on location, clinic type, supply, and demand. At our hospital, they usually range from $20 to $45. To get the most accurate price, you should contact your veterinary practice directly for information.
What should I do if I miss my dog's vaccination appointment?
We have busy lives, and things like this happen. If you miss your dog's vaccine appointment, reach out to us as soon as possible to get it rescheduled. Depending on the vaccines your dog misses, there's a specified time frame that it can be overdue before you have to completely restart the series. The time frame varies, but a good general rule is no more than 6 weeks past your dog's vaccine due date. If you're not sure when your dog's next vaccines are due, please reach out to your primary veterinarian to keep your furry friends on track for a healthy life. Your rabies vaccine should never be overdue. It's always important to have it done before or on the due date. Rabies vaccine is required by law, so just get it done. I promise it'll be worth it. If anything happens, you don't want to have to deal with the state or government because they will come down on you for that one.
If you have questions, we would love to answer them for you. Please give us a call at the office at 704-802-1280, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!
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