Vaccinations are an essential part of keeping your dog healthy and protected against serious diseases. By following a proper vaccination schedule recommended by your veterinarian, you can help ensure that your furry friend stays happy and healthy throughout their life. In this blog post, we’ll discuss vet-recommended vaccinations by age of your dog, including specific vaccines and when they should be administered.
- Puppy Vaccinations (6-8 Weeks Old):
- DHLPP Vaccine (Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus): This combination vaccine protects against several serious diseases, including distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus, and leptospirosis. Puppies should receive their first DHLPP vaccine at 6-8 weeks of age, with booster shots given every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old.
- Bordetella Vaccine: This vaccine protects against kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease. Puppies should receive their first Bordetella vaccine at 6-8 weeks of age, with booster shots given every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old.
- Canine Coronavirus Vaccine: This vaccine protects against canine coronavirus, which can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Puppies should receive their first canine coronavirus vaccine at 6-8 weeks of age, with booster shots given every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old.
- Adolescent Vaccinations (12-16 Weeks Old):
- Rabies Vaccine: The rabies vaccine protects against the rabies virus, which is fatal if left untreated. Puppies should receive their first rabies vaccine at 12-16 weeks of age, with booster shots given every 1-3 years, depending on state and local regulations.
- DHPP Booster: Puppies should receive a booster shot of the DHPP vaccine at 12-16 weeks of age to ensure continued protection against distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus, and leptospirosis.
- Bordetella Booster: Puppies should receive a booster shot of the Bordetella vaccine at 12-16 weeks of age to ensure continued protection against kennel cough.
- Annual or Bi-Annual Vaccinations (Adult Dogs):
- DHPP Vaccine (Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus): After completing their initial puppy series, adult dogs should receive a DHPP booster shot annually or bi-annually, depending on your veterinarian’s recommendations.
- Rabies Vaccine: Adult dogs should receive a rabies vaccine booster shot annually or every 1-3 years, depending on state and local regulations.
- Bordetella Vaccine: Adult dogs should receive a Bordetella vaccine booster shot annually to ensure continued protection against kennel cough.
- Lyme Disease Vaccine: If you live in an area where Lyme disease is prevalent, your veterinarian may recommend vaccinating your dog against Lyme disease. The vaccine is typically administered annually.
Conclusion:
Following a proper vaccination schedule recommended by your veterinarian is essential for keeping your dog healthy and protected against serious diseases. By ensuring that your dog receives all the necessary vaccinations at the appropriate times, you can help ensure that they live a long, happy, and healthy life. If you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s vaccination schedule, be sure to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide you with personalized recommendations based on your dog’s age, health status, and lifestyle.