Should I Get My Dog Vaccinated? Why & When to Do It

Vaccinating Your Dog 

Similar to vaccines designed for people, your dog's shots protect your pup against several serious diseases that can easily become life-threatening for your pet. 

Generally, vaccines introduce your dog's immune system to a specific type of infection, which then triggers your dog's white blood cells to initiate production of antibodies generated by the immune system. These antibodies then attack the infection and destroy it. They also target infected cells to remove any trace of the pathogen. Your dog's system then remembers the type of infection and combats it when it invades the body. 

Though you might wonder if you really need to get your dog vaccinated, these vaccines will likely cost far less than treatment for illnesses the vaccines prevent. 

Why should I vaccinate my dog?

By proactively having your dog vaccinated at your vet's office and staying up to date on their booster shots, you can protect your canine companion from contracting deadly, dangerous diseases. 

Many vaccines, such as the rabies vaccines for both dogs and cats, are mandated across the United States. In many areas, residents need to be able to show current vaccination records for each pet they own to obtain a pet license. 

If you have your dog groomed, travel with your pooch, attend dog parks, or book a room in a pet-friendly hotel, vaccinations may be required. They can prevent your dog from catching contagious diseases from other animals and halt the spread of infection. this is also true with doggy daycares, pet sitting services, and other businesses. 

What can happen if I do not vaccinate my dog?

If you decide not to get your pooch vaccinated, your dog will be more susceptible to highly contagious, often fatal diseases such as distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, Bordetella, and rabies. Even if your dog spends its days indoors, parasites, infections, and viruses can get into your home and make their way into your dog's body. 

When dogs aren't protected with vaccines, they are at risk of contracting these diseases. Since your dog won't have the antibodies to fight off infections, your pup can become very ill and even die due to the health complications these diseases cause. Depending on the illness or disease, they may also transmit it to other people or animals living in your household or neighborhood. 

Because most dog-friendly spaces (pet-friendly hotels, dog parks, boarding facilities, vet's offices, shelters, pet groomers), require dogs to be up to date on their vaccines, you may be refused entry or turned away from these places and businesses if you cannot produce proof of current vaccinations. 

Which vaccines does my puppy or adult dog need?

Vaccinations are available for dogs to help prevent Bordetella, distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, leptospirosis, and rabies. Your veterinarian will recommend vaccines based on your dog's age, location, and lifestyle. 

Puppy & Adult Dog Vaccine & Booster Shot Schedule 

Potential Side Effects of Dog Vaccines & Booster Shots

While vaccines are generally pretty safe, some dogs have experienced an allergic reaction. The reason for this is usually a sensitivity to an individual ingredient of a specific vaccine. Sometimes, this can be based on the genetics of a specific breed.

Individual vaccinations have been known to cause reactions in German shepherds, various collies, and some sheepdogs. It is important to note that your veterinarian will avoid any vaccines that contain ingredients to which your dog may be allergic.

Vaccines to Help Your Dog Live a Long & Happy Life

Vaccinations are a key component of your dog's preventive health care. Bring your dog in for routine vaccines help to protect them against various diseases and illnesses that can impact their quality of life. This helps provide them with the best chance at living a long, healthy and happy life. 

Is your puppy or dog due for their routine vaccinations? Contact our Brookhaven animal hospital today to book an appointment.