Dog Vaccinations at South 40 Veterinary Hospital
Vaccines are integral for protecting your dog from several diseases that can cause severe health complications or death. Knowing the vaccines your dog requires and the schedule for getting them is vital for keeping your dog happy and healthy. South 40 Veterinary Hospital in College Station, TX, is here to tell you about dog vaccinations and when you should schedule them.
How Vaccines Protect Dogs
Vaccines inject modified or inactive microorganisms that cause specific diseases into your dog to help build immunity. These injections allow your dog’s immune system to identify the illness and fight against it. Doing this prevents these diseases from causing significant health issues later in life.
Vaccines for Your Dog
The two types of vaccines for dogs include core and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are deemed vital for ensuring the well-being of your dog and the general pet population. Non-core vaccines are only necessary based on your pet’s environment, age, and lifestyle. For example, your vet may recommend the Lyme disease vaccine if your dog lives in a woody area or spends plenty of time outdoors.
Core vaccines include rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and infectious hepatitis, while non-core vaccines may include Leptospira, parainfluenza, Bordetella, and influenza. Your vet near you can help determine which vaccines your dog should receive to protect it from diseases it is likely to face.
When to Schedule Your Adult Dog and Puppy Vaccines
The frequency and timeline for your dog’s vaccinations will depend on its age and the shots required. Rabies vaccines can last for just a year or every few years. Adult dogs typically require updated distemper, adenovirus, and parvovirus vaccines every one to three years. Your puppy’s vaccine schedule will likely look like the following:
• Parvovirus and distemper: 6 to 8 weeks
• Distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, and parvovirus (DHPP): 10 to 12 weeks
• Rabies and DHPP: 16 to 18 weeks, then 12 to 16 months
Vaccine Safety for Dogs
Vaccinations provide a safe way to keep your dog protected from dangerous diseases. While some dogs may have soreness at the injection site, significant reactions are rare. Your vet near you can answer your questions about vaccines and their possible side effects.
Keep Your Dog Healthy With Preventative Care From South 40 Veterinary Hospital
Vaccines are essential for preventing future health complications or death due to several diseases, so contact South 40 Veterinary Hospital in College Station, TX, to protect your dog’s well-being with vaccinations today. Call us and schedule an appointment with our veterinarian at (979) 977-0711 to get the preventative care necessary to ensure your dog lives a long, healthy life.
