Understanding Vaccinations for Dogs

Today we are simply going to share information about many of the vaccinations you are likely to hear about as a dog owner. While there are general courses of vaccines, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. As responsible pet owners, collaborate with your veterinarian to identify the best vaccination strategy for your furry friend.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends vaccines that shield dogs from some of the most infectious and severe diseases. In this post, we will dive into the core vaccines included in this program and talk about the most devastating diseases that can often be prevented through timely vaccination.

Understanding Core Vaccines

Core vaccinations are intended to guard against diseases that are widespread, severe, and sometimes deadly. The AVMA notes that specific needs can differ based on factors like age, health status, and where you live. Nevertheless, a basic understanding of these vaccines is critical for every dog owner.

Examples and Statistics

• Canine distemper is responsible for over 50% of severe respiratory and neurological cases in dogs.

• Parvovirus has a survival rate below 10% in untreated puppies, illustrating how serious this virus can be.

  
  

Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a contagious viral disease that can be lethal. It spreads through direct or indirect contact with infected bodily fluids, including those from a dog's eyes or nose. Although puppies are particularly vulnerable, any dog may fall ill. Symptoms vary, ranging from fever and respiratory issues to severe neurological problems. Vaccination is essential for prevention.

For context, a study demonstrated that over 80% of puppies vaccinated against distemper showed strong immunity, significantly decreasing their risk of contracting the disease.

Canine Adenovirus Type 1 & 2

There are two types of canine adenovirus, and each impacts different bodily systems. Adenovirus Type 1 causes infectious hepatitis, severely affecting the liver. It spreads through contact with contaminated environments, such as items soiled with an infected dog's urine or saliva.

On the other hand, Adenovirus Type 2 leads to respiratory problems like kennel cough. Vaccination is crucial to protect against both of these serious conditions.

Canine Parainfluenza

Canine parainfluenza is a viral infection that targets the respiratory system. It spreads through nasal secretions, often causing mild but highly contagious sickness in dogs, especially young puppies. While not as severe as distemper or adenovirus, parainfluenza can lead to more serious respiratory infections if left unchecked.

For example, recent statistics show that around 30% of dogs experiencing respiratory illnesses are linked to parainfluenza. Vaccination is a precaution that can help minimize these risks.

Canine Parvovirus

Parvovirus is a notorious viral disease that generates stress for dog owners. This resilient virus can endure tough environmental conditions and many disinfectants, making it hard to eradicate. Infection often leads to severe diarrhea and vomiting, which can cause dehydration—a dangerous issue, especially for puppies.

Vaccination is critical; studies indicate that vaccinated dogs have a survival rate exceeding 90% compared to unvaccinated dogs. This emphasizes the importance of timely vaccinations to protect your pet.

• At Harvest Creek, all of our puppies receive a single dose vaccine at 6 weeks old that initiates the protection from the five diseases mentioned above. Your vet will likely continue the with a series of two-three more of these vaccines as part of your puppies initial vaccinations.

Rabies

If you are familiar with any of these dog vaccines, it's likely going to be rabies. Rabies attacks the brain and central nervous system, and it can be transmitted to humans through a bite or scratch by an infected animal. After rabies is contracted, it can take up to a month to develop in the body. Often, some of the first symptoms to develop are aggression, excessive salivation or drooling, abnormal affection, staggering, seizures, and fearfulness. Generally, if your dog maintains their rabies vaccination, you should have little to worry about when it comes to rabies.

It's also important to know your state laws regarding rabies vaccinations for dogs. For example, where Harvest Creek is located in Iowa, all dogs in the state are required to be vaccinated for rabies by 6 months of age. You must also maintain your dogs rabies vaccination throughout their life. Only a licensed vet in the state of Iowa can administer rabies vaccines and provide you with the collar tag that is required by state law to be on your dogs collar.

One more interesting fact about the rabies vaccine schedule. Generally, puppies receive their first rabies vaccine at 16 weeks old. If you bring your dog back to the vet for their second rabies vaccine within a year after the first vaccine, your dog will not need another rabies vaccine for 3 years. However, if your dog does not receive their second vaccine within a year after the first vaccine, your dog will need a rabies vaccine every year.

Specifically regarding the rabies vaccine, it's important to know your state laws and discuss what is appropriate for your dog with your vet.

Canine Coronavirus

Canine coronavirus primarily impacts a dog’s gastrointestinal system, causing vomiting and diarrhea. While the illness is typically mild and often self-limiting, it can heighten health risks for young puppies.

Understanding the implications of this virus is essential, especially since outbreaks can occur in high-density environments like shelters or boarding facilities. Vaccination can substantially reduce these risks.

Canine Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through contact with the urine of infected animals, such as rodents. Not only is it harmful to dogs, but it can also transmit to humans, making it a pressing concern for households with children or multiple pets.

Infection can result in severe kidney damage and other complications. Due to the risk of exposure in many environments, the AVMA highly recommends vaccinating against leptospirosis.

Canine Bordetella Bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough)

Kennel cough is a bacterial respiratory tract infection transmitted by nasal and oral secretions. It causes a harsh, non-productive cough that may last for one to three weeks. Bordetella infections can occur alone or in combination with other respiratory problems.

This vaccine is frequently required by dog daycares and boarding facilities.

Canine Borreliosis (Lyme Disease)

Bacterial infection spread by a bite from an infected tick. Symptoms include fever, lethargy and muscle stiffness. Lameness can occur in more severe cases.

Collaborating with Your Veterinarian

While the core vaccines highlighted here are essential, it’s crucial to remember that every dog is unique. Factors like age, health condition, lifestyle, and geographic location can significantly influence which vaccines your dog requires. Working with your veterinarian ensures that you develop a customized vaccination plan tailored to your dog's specific profile.

Your veterinarian will help determine which vaccines are necessary and when your dog should receive them. This personalized approach is vital for promoting your dog’s health and happiness.

Final Thoughts

Understanding dog vaccines is an important aspect of responsible pet ownership. Being informed about the core vaccines recommended by the AVMA helps you make the best decisions for you and your dog.

Always consult your veterinarian to design a personalized vaccination plan that aligns with your dog’s lifestyle and health concerns. By understanding these diseases and the available preventive measures, you are fostering a long, happy life together with your beloved pet.