What You Should Know About Dog Vaccinations
There's been a lot of discussion about dog vaccinations recently. Some veterinarians believe booster shots are over done and should only be given every three years. Other are adamant that annual shots are needed to adequately protect a dog from disease.
Whichever side of the fence you stand on, the fact is that few experts dispute the need for vaccinations. Millions of dogs receive these every year, and only a miniscule percentage show any adverse side effects.
And while today's vaccines may not be perfect, they do offer a great deal of protection. An unvaccinated dog is at serious risk of infection, so why chance it? Until science can conclusively prove that vaccines are dangerous or ineffective, it definitely pays to have your dog vaccinated.
Dog vaccinations protect against the most common canine diseases including, parvovirus, distemper and rabies. The initial shots are given to a puppy between the age of 6 and 8 weeks. Thereafter shots are given at scheduled intervals until the pup is 15 weeks old. Booster shots are then given annually, although some veterinarians recommend once every three years.
The core vaccines are given in combination and are normally referred to as a 5 in 1. This protects against the following diseases;
Canine Distemper: A highly infectious and often deadly disease that causes seizures, convulsions, respiratory and heart failure. It is spread by discharge from the eyes and nose of an infected dog coming into contact with a healthy dog.
Canine Hepatitis virus: A fast-spreading disease that attacks the abdominal organs, usually causing death within 6 – 10 days. Normally spread via the urine, faeces or saliva of an infected animal.
Leptospirosis: A bacterial disease that causes severe damage to the digestive tract, liver and kidneys. It is transmitted via infected urine and has an extremely high mortality rate.
Parainfluenza: A form of kennel cough that is spread by contact or through the air. Highly contagious.
Canine Parvovirus: A viral disease that is often deadly to puppies and older dogs. It attacks multiple systems including the intestinal tract, lymph tissue and the immune system.
As well as the core vaccines, your dog will usually need a bi-annual rabies shot.
Why Dog Vaccinations Are Essential
Dog vaccinations are important for a number of reasons, chief of which is the health of your pet. But there are many other valid reasons for vaccinating your dog, some of them required by law.
Many cities require a vaccination certificate as part of their licensing criteria, while you'll also need to provide proof for international travel or booking into a dog-friendly resort or hotel. All reputable kenneling, dog training and doggy dog care facilities will also ask for proof of vaccination.
These are all valid reasons for having your dog vaccinated, but the most important reason of all is still the quality of life of your pet.
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