Vaccinations play an important role in making sure your dog stays happy and healthy throughout their life. Today, our Hopkinsville vets explain everything you should know about dog vaccinations.
Vaccinating Your Dog
Vaccinations for your dog provide a strong defense against a variety of diseases, some of which can be fatal for your pup.
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.
Some Dogs Do Not Need All Vaccines
The vaccines recommended for dogs in the Hopkinsville area include immunizations to help prevent bordetella, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and rabies.
Your vet will be able to recommend the vaccines which are most appropriate for your dog based on your pup's age, where you live, and your dog's lifestyle.
Vaccination Schedule for Puppies & Adult Dogs
Below you will find a general guide to when your puppy or adult dog should get their shots:
Puppy Vaccine Schedule
6 - 8 Weeks
- *DHPP Shot 1
- Bordatella
- Leptospira
- Lyme
- Influenza Virus-H3N8
- Influenza Virus-H3N2
10 - 12 Weeks
- Influenza Virus-H3N8
- Influenza Virus-H3N2
- DHPP Shot 2
- Leptospira
- Lyme
- Rabies
14 - 16 Weeks
- DHPP Shot 3
Dog Vaccine Schedule
Annually
- Bordatella
- Leptospira
- Lyme
- Rabies
- Influenza Virus-H3N8
- Influenza Virus-H3N2
Every 3 Years
- DHPP Booster
- Rabies
*DHPP: This vaccine protects against Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.
Age Restrictions
Very young puppies and senior dogs with compromised immune systems are not eligible for all shots. Speak to your vet to find out more about which vaccines are appropriate for your dog.
Possible Side Effects
Some dogs may experience a mild reaction after they receive their shot. Common reactions include sneezing and cold-like symptoms, as well as lethargy which may be paired with a mild fever. These symptoms will typically go away within 24 hours or so.
A dog may have an allergic reaction after a vaccination depending on the ingredients in the vaccine. Some breeds are more likely to have a reaction than others and will have different reactions from others.
If your dog has an allergy to an ingredient in a vaccination, your vet will skip that vaccine if necessary.
The Verdict on Dog & Puppy Vaccines
Vaccinations are a key component of your dog's preventive health care schedule. By taking your dog in for their shots early in life, then regularly as they move through adulthood, you give your canine companion 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. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.