The core vaccinations for dogs, typically started at six weeks of age, protect them from several highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases. These include distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus, and rabies. Regular veterinary care and booster shots are crucial to maintain your dog’s health and immunity against these diseases.
What are the core vaccinations for dogs?
Core vaccinations are essential for all dogs, regardless of lifestyle or location, because they protect against diseases that are highly contagious, cause severe illness, and are often fatal. These vaccinations are a critical part of your dog’s preventative healthcare, ensuring they live a long and healthy life.
What diseases do core vaccines protect against?
Core vaccines protect dogs from:
- Distemper: A severe, often fatal viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
- Hepatitis: An infectious disease of the liver.
- Parainfluenza: A highly contagious respiratory virus that causes coughing, nasal discharge, and fever.
- Parvovirus: A highly contagious viral disease that causes severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, often fatal in puppies.
- Rabies: A fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system and can be transmitted to humans and other animals.
When should puppies receive their core vaccinations?
Puppies typically receive their first core vaccinations starting at six weeks of age. A series of three to four vaccinations are administered, with each dose given two to four weeks apart. This series includes combined vaccines against distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. At three months of age, puppies can receive a rabies vaccine.
How often do adult dogs need booster shots?
Adult dogs require booster shots to maintain their immunity. A booster shot for the core vaccines (distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus) is given within one year after the initial puppy series, and then readministered every three years. Rabies boosters are given every year or every three years, depending on local regulations.
Why are regular veterinary check-ups important for vaccinated dogs?
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial even for vaccinated dogs. Veterinarians can assess your dog’s overall health, monitor for any signs of illness, and provide guidance on preventative care. Annual testing for heartworm is also recommended in many areas, along with preventative medication.
What are non-core vaccines for dogs?
Non-core vaccines are optional and depend on a dog’s lifestyle and risk of exposure. Examples include vaccines for kennel cough (Bordetella), Lyme disease, and leptospirosis. Consult your veterinarian to determine if non-core vaccines are right for your dog.
Ensuring your dog receives the core vaccinations and regular veterinary care is a fundamental responsibility of dog ownership. These measures significantly reduce the risk of preventable diseases, contributing to a healthier and happier life for your canine companion.
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