Vaccines for Puppies & Dogs

One of the main responsibilities you have as a pet parent is to keep your loyal companion in good health and that starts with vaccines. As a puppy, maternal antibodies wear off around 6-weeks-old which is why we recommend starting vaccination then. Vaccination is not just a one-time event; puppies are given different doses until they are 3 or 4-months-old and then as adults, they are given boosters to maintain immunity.

What happens if my canine companion is not vaccinated?

If your puppy or dog is not vaccinated, they are at risk of developing the following diseases:

1. Bordetella - this is an upper respiratory infection that causes breathing issues, coughing and runny nose.
2. Canine adenovirus type 2 - a respiratory illness that comes with pneumonia and can result in death.
3. Canine distemper - a fatal disease with symptoms such as fever, seizures and lung disease.
4. Canine Parvovirus - this disease can cause fatality, the symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea and bone marrow suppression.
5. Lyme disease - causes inflammation, fatal kidney damage and joint pain.
6. Rabies - a disease that will affect the central nervous system and progresses to death.

Why do dogs need to be revaccinated?

Immunity declines after a certain time, which is why your dog will need boosters. If they don’t maintain a certain level of immunity, they are at risk of disease but will also need to restart the vaccine series.

Are vaccines safe for my dog?

Yes. Vaccines undergo a lot of testing before they are approved. Occasionally some canine patients will have a mild reaction to the vaccine. Rest assured that when compared to disease symptoms a vaccine reaction is the easier option. Vaccine side effects include hives, swelling, fatigue, loss of appetite etc., but within 48 hours your puppy/dog will be back to their normal self.