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Should I get my dog vaccinated? 5 Good Reasons To Do It

When it comes to ensuring the health and well-being of your beloved canine companion, vaccinations are a crucial component. As a responsible pet owner, you might wonder, "Should I get my dog vaccinated?" The short answer is yes, and here are five good reasons to do it.

Protecting Your Dog’s Health

Vaccinations are vital in protecting your dog from various serious and potentially fatal diseases. The core vaccines, including rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus, are essential for every dog. These vaccines shield your dog from highly contagious diseases that can lead to severe health issues or death.

Ensuring Community Health

By vaccinating your dog, you also contribute to the overall health of the pet community. Diseases like rabies can be transmitted to humans, making vaccination a public health necessity. Keeping your dog’s vaccinations up to date helps prevent the spread of these dangerous diseases in your neighborhood.

Legal Requirements

Many areas legally require certain vaccinations. For example, the rabies vaccine is mandatory in most places because it can be transmitted from animals to humans (zoonotic nature). Staying compliant with local laws is another important reason to keep your dog's vaccine schedule up to date.

Preventing Costly Treatments

Preventing disease through vaccination is significantly more cost-effective than treating a sick pet. Diseases like parvovirus can require extensive and expensive veterinary care. Regular vaccinations can save you from high veterinary bills in the long run.

Extending Your Dog’s Life

Ultimately, vaccinations contribute to a longer, healthier life for your dog. Protecting them from dangerous diseases ensures that your furry friend can enjoy many happy, healthy years by your side.

Vaccination Schedule for Puppies & Adult Dogs

It’s crucial to follow a proper vaccine schedule for your dog. Here’s an outline of when your puppy should be vaccinated and the shots required throughout their life:

Puppy Shot Schedule

6 - 8 Weeks

  • *DHPP Shot 1
  • Bordatella
  • Leptospira
  • Lyme
  • Influenza Virus-H3N8
  • Influenza Virus-H3N2

10 - 12 Weeks

  • Influenza Virus-H3N8
  • Influenza Virus-H3N2
  • DHPP Shot 2
  • Leptospira
  • Lyme
  • Rabies

14 - 16 Weeks

  • DHPP Shot 3

Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule

Annually

  • Bordatella
  • Leptospira
  • Lyme
  • Rabies
  • Influenza Virus-H3N8
  • Influenza Virus-H3N2

Every 3 Years

  • DHPP Booster
  • Rabies

*DHPP: This vaccine protects against Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.

Age Restrictions

Speak to your vet to learn which vaccines are appropriate for your dog. Very young puppies and senior dogs with compromised immune systems are not eligible for all shots.

Risks of Not Vaccinating Your Dog

Choosing not to vaccinate your dog can lead to severe consequences, including:

  • Increased risk of contracting and spreading deadly diseases
  • There is a higher likelihood of costly medical treatments for preventable illnesses
  • Potential legal ramifications for failing to vaccinate against mandatory diseases like rabies
  • Shortened lifespan and decreased quality of life for your pet

Possible Vaccine Side Effects

Some dogs may have an allergic reaction to certain vaccines due to a sensitivity to specific ingredients. Certain breeds, such as German shepherds, various collies, and some sheepdogs, are known to be particularly sensitive to certain vaccinations. In such cases, your vet will avoid using vaccines containing ingredients your dog may be sensitive to.

The Importance of Vaccinations

Vaccinations are crucial for your dog's preventive healthcare. By vaccinating your dog early on and keeping up with regular shots as they grow up, you greatly increase the chances of ensuring your beloved pet's long and healthy 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.

Do you need to schedule your puppy or dog for routine vaccinations? Contact our Olive Branch vets today to book an appointment.

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Cat and Cow Vet Clinic is accepting new patients! Our experienced vets are passionate about the health of Olive Branch companion animals. Get in touch today to book your pet's first appointment.

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