Dog Vaccination is crucial for maintaining their health and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Here’s a detailed look at the dog vaccination schedule and the importance of each vaccine:

Dog Vaccination (core)

Core vaccinations are essential for all dogs because they protect against widespread diseases and severe consequences.

1. Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)
   • First dose: 6-8 weeks of age
   • Second dose: 10-12 weeks of age
   • Third dose: 14-16 weeks of age
   • Booster: 1 year after the last dose, then every 3 years
   • Importance: Distemper is a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems.
2. Canine Adenovirus (CAV-2)
   • First dose: 6-8 weeks of age
   • Second dose: 10-12 weeks of age
   • Third dose: 14-16 weeks of age
   • Booster: 1 year after the last dose, then every 3 years
   • Importance: CAV-2 protects against canine hepatitis and respiratory infections.
3. Canine Parvovirus (CPV)
   • First dose: 6-8 weeks of age
   • Second dose: 10-12 weeks of age
   • Third dose: 14-16 weeks of age
   • Booster: 1 year after the last dose, then every 3 years
   • Importance: Parvovirus is a highly contagious and potentially deadly virus that causes severe gastrointestinal illness in dogs.
4. Rabies
   • First dose: 12-16 weeks of age
   • Booster: 1 year after the first dose, then every 1-3 years (depending on local regulations)
   • Importance: Rabies is a fatal viral disease that can affect all mammals, including humans. It is required by law in many areas due to its zoonotic potential.

Dog Vaccination(non-core)

Non-core vaccinations are recommended based on a dog’s lifestyle, environment, and risk of exposure to certain diseases.

1. Leptospirosis
   • First dose: 12 weeks of age
   • Second dose: 14-16 weeks of age
   • Booster: Annually
   • Importance: Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can affect dogs and humans. It is transmitted through contact with contaminated water or soil.
2. Bordetella bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough)
   • First dose: 8 weeks of age
   • Booster: Annually (or more frequently for high-risk dogs)
   • Importance: Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease, often required for dogs that are boarded, attend daycare, or participate in training classes.
3. Lyme Disease (Borrelia burgdorferi)
   • First dose: 12 weeks of age
   • Second dose: 14-16 weeks of age
   • Booster: Annually
   • Importance: Lyme disease is transmitted through tick bites and can cause severe health issues in dogs and humans.
4. Canine Influenza Virus (CIV)
   • First dose: 6-8 weeks of age
   • Second dose: 10-12 weeks of age
   • Booster: Annually
   • Importance: Canine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can lead to severe illness.

Importance of Dog Vaccination

1. Disease Prevention: Vaccines protect dogs from potentially fatal diseases. By vaccinating your dog, you help prevent the spread of these diseases to other dogs and, in some cases, humans.
2. Community Health: Vaccinating your dog contributes to the overall health of the pet community by reducing the prevalence of contagious diseases.
3. Legal Requirements: Some vaccinations, like rabies, are legally required in many areas. Failure to comply can result in fines and other legal consequences.
4. Cost-Effective: Preventing disease through vaccination is often much more cost-effective than treating a sick dog.
5. Travel and Boarding: Many boarding facilities, doggy daycares, and travel regulations require dogs to be up-to-date on their vaccinations.

Consulting with Your Veterinarian

Your veterinarian will help you determine the appropriate vaccination schedule for your dog based on their age, health status, lifestyle, and risk factors. Regular veterinary visits ensure that your dog remains protected and healthy.

Conclusion

Vaccinating your dog is a critical component of responsible pet ownership. By adhering to the recommended vaccination schedule and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help ensure a long, healthy life for your furry friend.