Vaccinating your dog is important to their health in order to prevent serious illness and medical conditions from developing. Here, our veterinarians at Marcello Veterinary Hospital discuss why you should vaccinate your dog and offer a schedule for when to vaccinate them.
Should You Get Your Dog Vaccinated?
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.
Does My Dog Need All Of The Available Vaccines?
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 vaccines which are most appropriate for your dog based on your dog's age, where you live, and your dog's lifestyle.
Vaccination Schedule for Puppies & Adult Dogs
Puppy Vaccination Schedule
6 - 8 Weeks
- DHPP*
10 - 12 Weeks
- DHPP* Booster
- Bordetella (Optional)
- Leptospirosis (Optional)
14 - 16 Weeks
- DHPP* Booster
- Rabies
- Bordetella (Optional)
- Leptospirosis (Optional)
Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule
Annually
- DHPP* Booster
- Bordetella (Optional)
- Leptospirosis (Optional)
Every 3 Years
- DHPP* Booster
- Rabies
*DHPP: This vaccine protects against Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.
Age Restrictions
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.
Are There Any Possible Side Effects Of Dog Vaccinations?
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.
The Importance of Vaccinations
Vaccinations are a key element of your dog's preventive health care. By taking your dog in for his/her shots early in life, and then regularly as they move through adulthood, you give your furry friend the very best chance of living a long and healthy life.