Some pet owners are unsure as to how necessary vaccinations are for their dogs. Today, our San Diego vets explain the importance of vaccinating your dog and provide insight on when specific vaccines should be administered.
Why Vaccinate Your Dog
Like vaccines for people, vaccinations for your dog protect them 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 save you much more money when compared to the cost of treatment for the illnesses vaccines protect against.
Which Vaccines Are Right for Your Dog
In the San Diego area, the vaccinations recommended for dogs include immunizations to help prevent bordetella, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and rabies.
At College Animal Hospital our vets 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 Shot 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
Adult Dog Vaccination 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
Speak to your vet to learn which vaccines are appropriate for your dog. Very young puppies and senior dogs with compromised immune systems are not eligible for all shots.
Possible Side Effects of Vaccinations
In some cases, 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.
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, then regularly as they move through adulthood, you give your furry friend 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.