What You Need To Know Before Vaccinating Your Dog
What Are Dog Vaccines?
Vaccines help boosts a dog’s immune system and act as a defensive mechanism against any invasive disease-causing organisms. The antigens in vaccines imitate these disease-causing organisms and stimulate the immune system by recognizing the presence of the antigens. So when your dog is exposed to the disease, their immune system recognizes it and is equipped to fight it off completely or reduce its effects.
What Are The Types Of Vaccinations?
Pet vaccinations are divided into two categories, i.e., core and non-core vaccines. According to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), core vaccines are those which each canine or feline must get, regardless of their age, condition, breed, or habits. These essential vaccines play a vital role in helping prevent the contraction of dangerous diseases. These include: canine parvovirus, canine distemper, hepatitis, and rabies.
Non-core vaccines are specific to the environment and area in which the animal lives, such as their geographic location, environment, and lifestyle. Some examples of non-core vaccines include Bordetella, Canine Influenza (dog flu), Leptospirosis, and Lyme vaccine.
When to Start Puppy Vaccinations?
If you have a puppy, the first round of vaccinations begins at six to eight weeks old, and then continues for every three weeks until they’re given the final vaccine at the age of four months.
The last vaccine should only be given after your puppy turns four months old as the antibodies in the mother’s breast milk can interfere with the vaccinations.For an adult dog, a titer test can help determine if they need a vaccination. This affordable test measures the number of antibodies present in your dog’s system. Once the results are out, the vet will then be able to determine whether your dog requires an immunity booster or not.
Are there any Side Effects and Risks Associated with Dog Vaccinations?
Although reactions to dog vaccines are rare, like any other medication, these vaccines can cause some side effects. It is vital to get your dog vaccinated at a time when you’re able to monitor the post-vaccination period.If your dog experiences a mild reaction, the symptoms may include fever, sluggishness, a loss of appetite, pain, or swelling around the injection site. These reactions are mild and often short-lived. There are times when your dog may experience a serious reaction, such as fainting, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, facial or paw swelling, and hives and seizures. You should immediately contact your vet or take your dog to the emergency room if any of these symptoms occur.
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