Vaccinating your dog is crucial to keep them healthy and safe from potentially severe diseases. Just like how humans get vaccinations to be protected from serious illness, you also need to vaccinate your dog so that their immune system can fight against infections.
Some vaccinations are important for dogs, which means pet parents cannot miss those at any cost. There are also some vaccines that a vet can recommend considering your dog’s health, and lifestyle to mitigate potential health risks. This blog will discuss some of the most essential dog vaccinations, their purpose, and why they are important. Explore more below.
Core vs Non-Core Vaccines
There are two categories of dog vaccines: Core and Non-core.
As the name suggests, core vaccines are a must-have for all dogs to protect them from fatal diseases. On the other hand, non-core vaccines are voluntary but recommended on a dog’s individual risk factors like age, lifestyle, the place where they live, etc.
List of Core Vaccines for Dogs
Let’s dive into understanding the essential dog vaccinations that can protect your furry friend against highly contagious diseases.
1. Rabies Vaccine
Rabies is a life-threatening virus that directly attacks the brain, and central nervous system of mammals, including humans. It can be deadly once symptoms start appearing. This virus can be transmitted through the bite of an infected animal.
Rabies is not a concern only for dogs, but for all mammals. It can also easily infect humans. Hence, this is the most essential dog vaccination. In fact, it's a law to vaccinate dogs against rabies in many countries. If you are a parent to a puppy, you can consult the veterinarian, and get them vaccinated first at 12 to 16 weeks of age. After that, you can take them for a booster dose one year later. Finally, your dog will need vaccinations every 1 to 3 years as suggested.
2. Canine Parvovirus Vaccine
Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects puppies but can also infect unvaccinated adult dogs. Its c common symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. It can also be fatal for your dog.
Parvovirus is highly resistant to cleaning agents. It can survive in the environment for several months and can spread easily with infected dogs, or contaminated food bowls, shoes, etc. You can ask your dog’s vet for this vaccination.
3. Canine Distemper Vaccine
Canine distemper vaccine is another contagious virus that attacks the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems of a dog. It can be life-threatening for your furry friend, and symptoms include coughing, fever, diarrhea, and seizures.
Distemper is extremely deadly and can attack unvaccinated dogs of any age. This vaccine can save your pet from this dangerous disease.
4. Canine Adenovirus-2 Vaccine
Canine adenovirus-2 vaccine is a deadly virus that causes infectious canine hepatitis, or ICH, and respiratory infections. ICH attacks the kidneys, liver, and blood vessels, while respiratory infection is associated with kennel cough. This vaccination is important to protect your dog and can be started at 6 to 8 weeks of age with boosters later as prescribed by the vet.
Other Important Links-
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Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs
Non-core vaccines are required by certain dogs of specific breeds and not all dogs need them. Its requirement depends on the dog’s lifestyle, risks of certain diseases., and the local environment. Let’s have a look at some non-core vaccinations for dogs.
1. Bordetella Vaccine
Also known as the kennel cough vaccine, bordetella bronchiseptica is a highly contagious bacterial that causes dry cough. It is more common in places where several dogs are close together like boarding kennels, grooming facilities, and dog parks. While kennel cough isn’t deadly, it can affect your dog’s health and can cause more discomfort to puppies, and older dogs.
2. Lyme Disease Vaccine
Lyme disease is caused when infected ticks bite the dog. Its common symptoms are fever, joint pain, and kidney issues. If you live in or travel to a place with a high tick population, your dog is more likely to catch this disease. It can cause long-term health issues in your dog. You may focus on preventing ticks to avoid this disease, but vaccination will work as an added protection for your dog.
In conclusion, regular vaccinations are undeniably important for the overall well-being of your dog. The four essential dog vaccinations are important to ensure that your dog lives a healthy life. Make sure to consult your veterinarian to understand your dog’s vaccination requirements. Don’t forget to stay updated with booster shots to maintain your dog’s immunity.
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