Vaccines offer protection against several illnesses that directly affect pets. Getting your dog vaccinated is an easy way to help him live a long, healthy life. When it comes to pet care and dog vaccinations, our veterinarians at West Side Vet in Statesboro have you covered.
What Are Dog Vaccines?
Similar to human vaccines, dog vaccines are designed to prepare the canine’s immune system to protect him from disease-causing organisms that may invade the body. These vaccines contain antigens, which are similar to those organisms but aren’t the disease itself.
Dog Vaccinations Are Important
Dog vaccinations are important because they help the immune system recognize when antigens are present. This helps ensure that the dog’s body is ready to fight off the real disease if ever exposed to it.
Dogs are constantly exposed to several different threats when outside, such as at the park, the grooming office, or a boarding facility. Without adequate protection, your dog is at risk of contracting potentially life-threatening illnesses and diseases.
Furthermore, if you intend to take your dog to get groomed or place your canine in a boarding facility, proof is usually needed regarding the status of your dog’s vaccinations. If a facility doesn’t require your pet’s vaccination records, then the environment could be potentially unsafe.
The Core Dog Vaccinations
Just like with humans, certain vaccinations are vital to a dog’s overall health and well-being. These are known as core dog vaccinations and are based on the severity of the disease, universal exposure risk, and severity of transmission. These are the core dog vaccinations that your dog should receive:
- Canine Distemper
- Canine Parvovirus
- Rabies
- Hepatitis
Other vaccines are important but are considered non-core, such as:
- Canine Influenza
- Bordetella
- Lyme
- Leptospirosis
When Should Dog Vaccinations Begin?
Core dog vaccinations should begin around six to nine weeks old when the puppy has weaned off its mother. However, if your dog was not vaccinated early in life, it is important to understand it is never too late to vaccinate your furry friend for his protection. This may be the case if you recently adopted a pet or took in a stray.
Contact Our Veterinarians in Statesboro, GA
Vaccinating your dog is an important part of overall pet care. If you have questions about canine vaccinations or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians, call our team at West Side Vet today at (912) 489-1998.
