Which vaccines should dogs receive?

1. Importance of Vaccines

Dogs are highly susceptible to various infectious diseases. Vaccines teach a dog’s immune system to produce antibodies against these diseases. This is crucial for the dog’s own protection as well as for preventing transmission to other animals and humans.

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2. Core Dog Vaccines and the Diseases They Protect Against

1. Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)

• Highly contagious virus affecting the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems.

• High mortality risk.

• Symptoms: fever, coughing, diarrhea, coordination problems.

2. Canine Parvovirus (CPV)

• Particularly dangerous for puppies.

• Causes severe bloody diarrhea and vomiting.

• Highly contagious.

3. Canine Adenovirus Types 1 & 2 (CAV-1, CAV-2)

• CAV-1 causes hepatitis.

• CAV-2 causes respiratory infections, especially kennel cough.

• Vaccines usually protect against both types.

4. Canine Parainfluenza Virus

• Contributes to respiratory infections and often kennel cough.

5. Leptospirosis

• Bacterial disease affecting kidneys and liver; can infect humans (zoonotic).

• Vaccination is particularly important.

6. Bordetella bronchiseptica

• Major cause of kennel cough.

• Highly contagious bacterial infection.

7. Rabies

• Fatal viral disease for both dogs and humans.

• Transmitted through bites of infected animals.

• Vaccination is mandatory in many countries.

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3. Vaccination Schedule

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4. Types of Vaccines

• Core Vaccines: Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus, Rabies. Recommended for all dogs.

• Non-Core Vaccines: Leptospirosis, Bordetella bronchiseptica, Lyme disease, Canine Influenza. Given depending on risk factors and environment.

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5. Before and After Vaccination

Before:

• Assess the dog’s health.

• Postpone vaccination if the dog has fever, inflammation, or other illness.

After:

• Observe for 24–48 hours.

• Mild symptoms like fatigue, reduced appetite, or lethargy may occur.

• Seek veterinary help immediately if allergic reactions appear.

• Keep vaccination records safely.

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6. Benefits of Vaccination

• Prevents infectious diseases, prolonging the dog’s life.

• Keeps dogs healthy during outbreaks.

• Protects humans from zoonotic diseases.

• Unvaccinated dogs may not be admitted to shelters and may violate laws.

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7. Importance of Regular Vet Consultation

• The veterinarian creates a tailored vaccination plan based on the dog’s age, health history, and living environment.

• Vaccine recommendations may change; always check with your vet.

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8. Special Cases

Conclusion:
Proper vaccination is the foundation of a dog’s health. Combined with daily care, proper nutrition, and veterinary supervision, it ensures a long and healthy life.