Dog Vaccination Guide
Imagine bringing home a playful, tail-wagging bundle of joy. From that first enthusiastic bark to the endless energy, your dog becomes an inseparable part of your life. But just like humans, dogs need protection from the unseen dangers lurking in their environment. Ensuring your furry friend gets the correct vaccinations on time is one of the most important steps in protecting their health. Vaccinations are not just about following a routine—they are about giving your dog the best possible start to a healthy, happy life.
Let us walk you through everything you need to know about dog vaccination, from the types of vaccines to the recommended schedules.
Why Should I Vaccinate My Dog?
Vaccinations are vital because they prepare your dog's immune system to fight off specific infectious diseases caused by viruses and bacteria. By exposing the immune system to weakened or killed forms of these pathogens, the body learns to produce antibodies that can effectively combat these diseases. This defense mechanism is crucial in preventing severe and often deadly infectious diseases.
Diseases like canine distemper and parvovirus can have devastating effects especially in pups wherein chances of survival are miniscule. Canine distemper, for instance, may lead to permanent nervous system damage and life-long twitching and incoordination of movement. While parvovirus can cause fatal dehydration through severe vomiting and diarrhoea. Dog vaccination is the most effective way to eliminate these risks and ensure your dog leads a healthy, disease-free life.
Types of Dog Vaccines
Vaccines for dogs can be categorized into two groups: core vaccines and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are those that every dog should receive, as they protect against highly contagious and dangerous diseases. Non-core vaccines are optional and may be recommended based on your dog’s lifestyle and risk factors. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), is a globally recognized body that prepares vaccination guidelines for dogs & cats.
Core Vaccines for Dogs
1. Rabies Vaccine for Dogs: Rabies is a fatal disease that can affect dogs, humans and other animals too. The anti-rabies vaccine is considered core especially in countries that are endemic to Rabies, such as India. Every dog must receive the rabies vaccine for dogs, with booster shots administered annually.
2. DHPPi Vaccine for Dogs: The DHPPi vaccine for dogs is a combination vaccine that protects against Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza. It's a core vaccine that all dogs should receive, with booster shots recommended every one to three years.
3. Leptospirosis Vaccine: Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can lead to severe kidney and liver damage. This vaccine is crucial, especially if your dog is exposed to environments where this bacterium is prevalent. The leptospirosis vaccine should be administered annually to maintain immunity.
Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs
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Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Bordetella is a bacterial pathogen known to cause respiratory infections in dogs. If your dog frequently socializes with other dogs, such as in kennels or dog parks, your vet may recommend this vaccine
When to Begin with the Dog Vaccine Schedule?
Puppies should start their dog vaccine schedule when they are between 6 to 8 weeks old. This initial vaccination phase is crucial, as puppies are highly vulnerable to diseases. The dog vaccine schedule involves a series of vaccinations administered every 2-4 weeks until the puppy reaches 16-20 weeks of age.
Puppy Vaccine Schedule
6-8 Weeks: The first dose of DHP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus) is administered. This is the very first vaccine administered to pups and hence contains fewer but vital components, to minimize post-vaccination stress in pups.
8-10 Weeks: A dose of DHPPiL (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainlfuenza and Leptospira components) is administered.
10-12 weeks, 16 weeks, 6 months & 12 months: Booster doses of DHPPiL is given at these suggestive time frames. Booster doses are crucial to help strengthen immunity against these infectious agents.
12 weeks: This is typically when the Rabies vaccine is administered for the very first time, followed by booster doses at 14-16 weeks and then at 12 months.
Your vet is the expert on the vaccination schedule to be followed for your pup. Always consult your vet!
Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule
Once your puppy reaches 1 year of age and has received all core vaccines, you can transition to an adult dog vaccination schedule. This typically involves periodic booster doses to maintain immunity. Depending on the vaccine components administered and your pet’s lifestyle, the booster doses need to be given annually or every 3 years, as per your vet’s advice.
Care before and after vaccination
Vaccination must always be administered to a healthy animal that has been dewormed (a week before the date of vaccination). Vaccination represents a “stress” for the individual and hence it will be even better tolerated and more effective if the animal is in good shape and devoid of parasites.
Scheduling a vet consultation for a thorough examination is a must prior to initiating the vaccination process, to get a clean health chit.
While dog vaccinations are generally safe, some dogs may experience mild reactions. Common side effects include slight fever, lethargy, or mild discomfort at the injection site. These symptoms usually resolve within 24 hours. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen, consult your vet immediately.
Vaccinating your dog is a critical part of responsible pet ownership. By adhering to the recommended dog vaccine schedule and ensuring your dog receives the mandatory vaccines you are taking the necessary steps to protect your pet from severe and potentially fatal diseases. Regular vet visits and staying updated on vaccinations will help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come.