Preventive care is designed to protect your pup against a variety of potentially life-threatening diseases. Here, our vets in Fairhaven share a standard puppy and adult dog vaccine and booster shots schedule and discuss how vaccinations help protect your furry friend.
Vaccinating Your Dog
As with the vaccines that have been designed for people, dog shots protect your pet against a host of serious diseases that could threaten the life of your pet.
While getting your dog vaccinated may appear to be an unnecessary expense at the time, the shots are likely to cost far less than treatment for the illnesses that vaccines protect against.
Why should I vaccinate my pet?
Some pet owners wonder what the dangers are of having their pets unvaccinated. You can protect your pet from deadly, dangerous diseases and preserve their health by proactively having them vaccinated and keeping your four-legged family members up to date on their booster shots.
Many vaccines, such as rabies vaccines for both cats and dogs, are mandated across the United States. In many areas, residents require vaccination records to obtain a pet license.
If you stay in pet-friendly hotels, attend dog parks, have your pet groomed or travel with your pet, vaccinations may be required and can prevent your furry best friend from contracting contagious diseases from other animals, along with inadvertently spreading infection. This is also accurate for doggy daycares, pet-sitting services and other businesses.
What vaccines does my puppy or adult dog need?
Vaccinations are available for dogs in the Fairhaven area to help prevent Bordetella, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and rabies.
According to your veterinarian, the vaccines recommended for your dog will be based on your dog's age, where you live, and your dog's lifestyle.
Puppy & Adult Dog Vaccine & Booster Shot Schedule
Puppy Initial & Booster Shot Schedule
6 - 8 Weeks
- DHPP*
- Leptospirosis (Optional)
10 - 12 Weeks
- Booster: DHPP*
- Bordetella
- Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
14 - 16 Weeks
- Booster: DHPP*
- Booster: Bordetella
- Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
- Rabies
Adult Dog Vaccine Schedule
Annually
- DHPP*
- Rabies
- Bordetella
- Leptospirosis (Optional)
*DHPP: This vaccine protects against Distemper, Adenovirus-2, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.
Age Restrictions
Consult your veterinarian to learn more about which vaccines are appropriate for your dog.
All shots are ineligible for very young puppies and senior dogs with compromised immune systems.
Potential Side Effects of Dog Vaccines & Boost Shots
While vaccines are generally pretty safe, some dogs have experienced an allergic reaction. The reason for this is usually a sensitivity to an individual ingredient of a specific vaccine. Sometimes, this can be based on the genetics of a specific breed.
Individual vaccinations have been known to cause reactions in German shepherds, various collies, and some sheepdogs. It is important to note that your veterinarian will avoid any vaccines that contain ingredients to which your dog may be allergic.
Vaccines to Help Your Dog Live a Long & Happy Life
Vaccinations are a key component of your dog's preventive health care. Bring your dog in for routine vaccines help to protect them against various diseases and illnesses that can impact their quality of life. This helps provide them with the best chance at living a long, healthy and happy life.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.