Regular checkups with appropriate vaccinations are essential for keeping pets healthy. To keep your dog adequately protected from avoidable diseases you must follow your veterinarian’s outline of a vaccination schedule.
A vaccine contains a watered down version of the virus or germ that would cause the disease in its original form. The vaccination works by taking advantage of the immune system of the animal. By injecting your dog with an inactive or tiny form of an infective agent, the immune system of the dog kicks in and develops an immunity to future exposure to the disease. The effect is limited so boosters or re-vaccination will be necessary. Regular trips to the veterinarian are essential to keep all vaccinations up to date.
Puppies receive some protection from their moms when they are nursing but the protection is short lived. The vaccinations begin in the first year of a dog’s life. Veterinarians will recommend various vaccines for different dogs depending on the lifestyle of the animal. Certain dangers to the dog only exist in certain parts of the country. For instance, Lyme disease is primarily a problem in the Northeast and the upper Midwest.
Another example in regard to the lifestyle of the animal is the dog that is boarded or regularly visits the local dog park. Dogs that are exposed to other animals require certain vaccines that aren’t a necessity for animals that are always home or dogs that rarely interact with other dogs.
To figure out which vaccines are right for your pet all you have to do is listen to your vets advice. He or she will probably ask you questions about your dog’s routine to determine the best regimen of vaccines appropriate for your dog.
Certain core vaccines are highly recommended to prevent serious diseases like rabies. They are considered required shots.
CORE VACCINATOINS for DOGS:
Parvovirus, Distemper, Canine adenovirus, and Rabies
VACCINES DEPENDING ON LIFESTYLE:
Lyme disease, Bordetella (also known as kennel cough), and Canine Influenza
