When it comes to caring for your dog, almost every pet owner knows a few basics, like feeding them a healthy diet and getting them the proper exercise. However, it’s also essential for dog owners to be aware of the different vaccines their dogs should get. There are several different types of vaccinations available, and each one protects your dog from another disease. Puppies should start getting vaccinated at 6-8 weeks old and continue to receive them throughout their lives. This blog post will discuss some of the most critical vaccines your dog should receive.
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Rabies
Rabies is a disease transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually through a bite. Once a dog is infected with rabies, the virus attacks the nervous system, causing paralysis and death. Although rabies is in all regions of the United States, it is most common in areas with a high density of wild animals, such as raccoons, skunks, and bats.
Any dog that spends time outdoors is at risk of coming into contact with an infected animal and contracting rabies. The rabies vaccine is the best way to protect your dog from this deadly virus. The vaccine is typically given in two doses, with the first dose given at 12-16 weeks old and the second dose given one year later. After that, your dog will need to receive a booster vaccine every three years.
Canine Parvovirus (CPV)
Dogs are prone to several different viruses, some of which can be deadly. One such virus is Canine Parvovirus (CPV), a highly contagious disease that can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. Puppies are especially vulnerable to CPV, which can be fatal in young dogs.
For this reason, it is essential to make sure that your dog is vaccinated against CPV. The vaccine is typically given in two or three shots, with the first round at six weeks of age. After completing the initial vaccination series, dogs should receive booster shots every one to three years. By ensuring that your dog is up-to-date on their CPV vaccinations, you can help protect them from this potentially deadly virus.
Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)
Another virus that dogs are susceptible to is Canine Distemper Virus (CDV). This virus attacks infected dogs’ respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Symptoms of CDV include coughing, runny nose, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. Unfortunately, there is no cure for CDV, which can be fatal in dogs.
The best way to protect your dog from this virus is to ensure that they are vaccinated against it. Puppies should receive their first dose of the vaccine at six to eight weeks old, with booster shots every three to four weeks until they are 16 weeks old. After that, dogs should receive a booster vaccine every one to three years.
Adenoviruses
Adenoviruses are a group of viruses that can cause various symptoms, including respiratory illness, diarrhea, and conjunctivitis. Adenoviruses can be spread through close contact with infected dogs or contaminated surfaces. Puppies are especially vulnerable to adenoviruses, as they have not yet developed immunity to the virus. For this reason, it is vital to make sure that puppies receive the Adenovirus vaccine as part of their routine vaccinations.
The vaccine is typically given in two doses, with the second dose administered six weeks after the first. If your dog is at high risk of exposure to adenoviruses (such as if they attend dog shows or boarding facilities), then booster shots may be necessary.
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is a severe illness that can significantly impact both humans and dogs. The disease is caused by bacteria that are transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. Lyme disease can cause many symptoms, including fever, joint pain, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can even lead to paralysis or death. While there is no cure for Lyme disease, it can be effectively treated with antibiotics.
However, the best way to protect against the disease is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. And one of the best ways to do that is to make sure your dog is vaccinated against Lyme disease. Lyme disease vaccines are safe and effective, and they offer a high degree of protection against the disease.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can infect both animals and humans. However, dogs are particularly susceptible to the disease, spread through contact with contaminated water or soil. Symptoms of leptospirosis in dogs can include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and muscle pain. In severe cases, the disease can lead to kidney failure and death.
Fortunately, a vaccine is available that can help protect dogs from leptospirosis. The vaccine is typically given in two doses, with the second dose administered four to six weeks after the first. Once a dog has received both vaccine doses, it should be protected from the disease for at least twelve months.
Bordetella
One often overlooked vaccine is the Bordetella vaccine, which helps protect against Bordetella bronchiseptica, a bacteria that can cause severe respiratory illness in dogs. The good news is that the Bordetella vaccine is relatively safe and effective, and most dogs only need one dose per year. However, there are a few side effects to be aware of, such as fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. If you have any concerns about the Bordetella vaccine, talk to your veterinarian. They will be able to give you the most up-to-date information on the vaccine and help you decide if it is suitable for your dog.
Conclusion
It may come as a surprise, but there are several different vaccines that your dog should get regularly. While some of these vaccines are optional, others (such as the rabies vaccine) are required by law in many states. However, even if a vaccine is not required by law, it is still important to consider whether or not it is suitable for your dog. No one knows your dog better than you, so it is vital to make the best decision for them. If you have any questions about vaccinating your dog, talk to your veterinarian.
