In order to help protect your dog against a number of serious and potentially life-threatening diseases, you should bring your dog in for pet vaccinations. Here, our vets at Animal Medical Center of Cumming talk about the importance of dog vaccinations, why they are needed and what the typical canine vaccine schedule looks like for both adult dogs and puppies.
Why should you bring your dog in for routine vaccinations?
Much like vaccinations for people, dog vaccinations are created to help protect your furry friend against a number of conditions and diseases that may harm your beloved companion.
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.
Your Dog May Not Need Every Pet Vaccination
The recommended dog vaccinations in Cumming include immunizations to help prevent Bordetella, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and rabies.
Your vet will be able to recommend the vaccines that are most appropriate for your dog based on your dog's age, where you live and your dog's lifestyle.
Dog & Puppy Vaccine Schedule
Puppy Shot Schedule
6 - 8 Weeks
- DHPP* (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
10 - 12 Weeks
- Booster: DHPP* (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Bordetella (Optional)
- Leptospirosis (Optional)
14 - 16 Weeks
- Booster: DHPP* (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
- Booster: Bordetella (Optional)
- Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule
Annually
- Booster: DHPP* (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
- Booster: Bordetella (Optional)
- Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
Every 3 Years
- Booster: DHPP* (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
*DHPP: This vaccine protects against Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.
Age Restrictions
Speak to your vet to find out more about which pet vaccinations in Cumming are appropriate for your dog. Very young puppies and senior dogs with compromised immune systems are not eligible for all shots.
What are the potential side effects of dog vaccinations?
While pet vaccinations have been created to be as safe as possible, some pets still have reactions, usually mild, to specific ingredients within the 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.
Our Final Thoughts on Dog 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.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.