You may be surprised to hear that there is no universal protocol for dog vaccinations. There are a few things that are required by the county, like Rabies. There are some vaccines that every dog should get, because there’s a good chance of contracting the disease and/or because the disease is deadly or very contagious. Beyond that, it’s up to you with your veterinarian’s recommendations, to decide which vaccinations to get.
Many veterinarians recommend the vaccination schedule that comes with the vaccinations. This probably makes sense to them because it’s the closest thing to a ‘standard’ that’s available. Most of their clients come in and ask for whatever vaccines their dog needs, trusting that the veterinarian knows what that is or that there is some standard. In this case, it makes sense to just make sure that the vaccines are covered. Better than facing an unhappy client when their dog gets sick even though they came in for vaccinations. But it is possible to overvaccinate. For example, you shouldn’t give a sick or weak dog any vaccines they don’t absolutely need.
Most experts agree that dogs should be protected against canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV 2), canine distemper virus (CDV), canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV 2), and rabies virus (RV) because they are highly contagious and potentially fatal.
Have your puppies vaccinated against distemper, parvo, and adenovirus, not before six weeks, and at least once after the age of 12 weeks. They should get a rabies vaccine after 16 weeks. This means that for the first few weeks, you puppy needs to stay away from any dogs that haven’t been vaccinated. If that’s not possible, talk to your vet about how early you can get the vaccinations and what the risks are.
For all of the other available vaccines, ask your vet about the diseases they protect against. How is it transmitted? How common is it, especially in your area? Is the disease treatable, and if so, how many dogs recover? If the disease kills many dogs who get it and the disease affects dogs in your area, you should get the vaccine. If you’re on the fence, the age and health of your dog may influence your decision.
If you don’t know which vaccines your dog has had and whether they’re current, your vet can do a test to find out if your dog is protected. Talk to your vet about whether it’s better to test or just go ahead and give a booster shot.
Many dog owners go to low cost clinics for vaccinations. If you do this, you need to know which vaccines to get, and you need to keep track and get booster shots when necessary. If you don’t pay for an office visit, you won’t have the opportunity to consult with the doctor. Many veterinarians offer vaccination clinics once a month at their office. Technicians give the shots, and you won’t get a consultation, but at least the vet’s office will keep the records and remind you when it’s time for boosters. If you’re going to do that, you could discuss the options with your vet the first time you bring your dog in for a checkup or for something else. If there are no changes in your dog’s general health, then go to their vaccination clinics.
Managing your dog’s health care is much like managing your own or your children’s health care. Don’t go in blindly. Ask questions, make decisions with the help of your vet, and get the best care for your particular dog.
Author Resource:
Coleen is the mom of one very special Chocolate Lab named Snickers. We love our favorite veterinarian in Newport Beach at http://www.lidovet.com . Dr. Earl loves pets and takes the time to answer questions. http://www.lidovet.com/ourfamily.html Also check out http://www.ocpetnews.com
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