When you have a new puppy it may seem like you are constantly visiting the vet for various reasons such as routine checkups or parasite prevention, but one of the most important parts of these visits is the vaccinations that help keep your new pup healthy. Our Brookhaven vets talk about why it is important to have your dog vaccinated and what the dog and puppy vaccine schedule looks like.
Are Dog Vaccines Important?
As with the vaccinations that have been designed for people, dog vaccines protect your pet against a host of serious diseases that could threaten the life of your pet.
While getting your dog vaccinated may seem like an unnecessary expense at the time, your dog's shots are likely to cost far less than treatment for the illnesses vaccines protect against.
Will My Dog Need Every Vaccine Available?
The vaccines recommended for dogs in the Bartlett area include immunizations to help prevent bordetella, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and rabies.
Your vet will be able to recommend the most appropriate vaccines for your dog based on your dog's age, where you live, and lifestyle.
Puppy & Dog Vaccine Schedule
Puppy Vaccination Schedule
6 - 8 Week Vaccines
- *DHPP Shot 1
- Bordatella
- Leptospira
- Lyme
- Influenza Virus-H3N8
- Influenza Virus-H3N2
10 - 12 Week Vaccines
- Influenza Virus-H3N8
- Influenza Virus-H3N2
- DHPP Shot 2
- Leptospira
- Lyme
- Rabies
14 - 16 Week Vaccines
- DHPP Shot 3
Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule
Annual Vaccinations
- Bordatella
- Leptospira
- Lyme
- Rabies
- Influenza Virus-H3N8
- Influenza Virus-H3N2
Vaccines Needed Every 3 Years
- DHPP Booster
- Rabies
*DHPP: this vaccine protects against Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.
Age Restrictions on Dog Vaccinations
Speak to your vet to find out more about which vaccines are appropriate for your dog. Very young puppies and senior dogs with compromised immune systems are not eligible for all shots.
What Are The Potential Side Effects of Vaccines?
Some dogs may have an allergic reaction to getting their shots. This is typically due to a sensitivity to an individual ingredient of a specific vaccine. Different breeds tend to react to some ingredients.
German shepherds, various collies, and some sheepdogs are known to be sensitive to individual vaccinations. Your vet will skip any vaccines that contain ingredients that your dog may be sensitive to.
Why Are Dog & Puppy Vaccines So Important?
Along with routine veterinary care and checkups, vaccinations are a key element of your dog's preventive health care. By taking your dog in for his/her shots early in life, then regularly as they move through adulthood, you give your furry friend the very best chance of living a 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.