Vaccinations are an important part of a pet’s preventive health care plan, as they prevent both pets and humans from many nasty diseases that can be contagious, and life-threatening. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the importance of these vaccines performed at Guelph animal hospital and break down exactly what each kind of vaccine does.
Core Vaccinations for Dogs
Core vaccines should be administered to all dogs, as they protect against diseases that are common, highly infectious, or have a high mortality rate. Such diseases are dangerous for pets and also pose a risk to public health.
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Rabies
Rabies is a fatal viral disease affecting the central nervous system. It can take from three to almost ten days after symptoms of rabies appear for someone`s death to the lethal infection 8. It can be spread to humans. Usually, a single dose is given at 12-16 weeks of age with boosters ranging from yearly to every three years depending on local legal requirements and type of administered vaccine.
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Canine Distemper
Canine distemper (CD) is an extremely contagious viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. It is often fatal. Initial vaccine, followed by boosters as listed above under DHPP, except a first booster at 1 year in place of the six-month booster. Recommended RABIES boosters starting at one year; and thereafter every three years.
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Canine Parvovirus
For instance, parvovirus is a disease that can be very harmful causing severe vomiting and diarrhea resulting in dehydration. If left untreated, the swelling can be fatal. Administer the initial vaccine to puppies at 6 to 8 weeks, with boosters given every 2 to 4 weeks up until the age of 16 weeks.
Non-Core Vaccinations for Dogs:
Non-core vaccines, on the other hand, are optional and given depending on your dog’s lifestyle, where it lives, and which infectious agents (commonly called pathogens) they have a chance of being exposed to. Milder diseases have already been kept at bay by the less common, weaker vaccines.
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Leptospirosis
This is a bacterial infection that can become life-threatening since it spreads rapidly and puts the liver, tummy, and kidneys at risk. It may also be passed to individuals. An initial vaccination at 12 weeks old, then a second one between 3 to 4 weeks of the first shot. Annual boosters thereafter
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Lyme Disease
The bacterium caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, is transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged tick and causes joint pain, fever, and kidney disease. The initial vaccine is at 12 weeks of age, followed by a booster in 3 to 4 weeks and then annual boosters.
It is important to know and follow the guidelines for your pet, of core or non-core vaccinations so you can protect them from serious illnesses. Regular vet visits also confirm your pet is properly vaccinated according to life stage and lifestyle exposure.
