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.
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.
