Having a new pet is an exciting experience that comes with a lot of responsibility. To give your puppy protection from an early age, vaccinations are a must! Being vaccinated prevents them from catching diseases that can shorten their life. At our clinic, we offer a wide range of vaccines including those required by law and the ones that are pet-specific.
When should my puppy/dog be vaccinated?
As a puppy, your pet has little protection from viruses which is why vaccination begins early. Generally, puppies get their first vaccines when they are 6 to 12-weeks-old. Different doses are given until they are 3 or 4 months of age. These vaccines can offer immunity for 1 to 3 years. As adults, your veterinarian will provide booster shots as necessary.
What vaccines are recommended for my pet?
Our team will recommend a vaccination plan that is unique to your pet. Some vaccines are essential for all companion pets; these shots are classified as core vaccines. Core vaccines protect puppies and dogs from deadly diseases including rabies, canine distemper, parainfluenza, and hepatitis.
Non-core vaccines are the additional vaccines our team may recommend if your dog/puppy has a higher chance of catching certain diseases. Pets who hunt and live in heavily wooded or grassy areas are more vulnerable and may need the following vaccines: leptospirosis, Lyme disease, and Bordetella.
To find out which vaccines your pet needs, schedule an appointment with us at 403-249-3411.
What happens to my pet if they aren’t vaccinated?
If your puppy/dog is not vaccinated, they don’t have immunity against viruses which can cause serious health problems. Unvaccinated canine friends can develop the following diseases:
- Canine Distemper virus – The symptoms will include fever, seizures, and lung disease
- Canine parvovirus – Vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and bone marrow suppression are symptoms of this illness.
- Kennel Cough/ Bordetella – The symptoms are coughing, difficulty breathing, and lung infection
- Lyme Disease – Pets with the disease suffer from joint pain, inflammation, and fatal kidney damage
- Rabies – Symptoms include seizures, fever, difficulty swallowing and paralysis
