Dog Vaccinations and Preventative Care

Understanding Dog Vaccinations and Preventative Care

Dog vaccinations are crucial for protecting your furry friend from various infectious diseases. The core vaccines that every dog should receive include:

1. **Rabies**: This is a fatal disease that can affect both dogs and humans. Vaccination is often required by law.
2. **Distemper**: A highly contagious viral disease that can cause severe respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological issues.
3. **Parvovirus**: This virus can be deadly, especially in puppies, causing severe vomiting and diarrhea.
4. **Adenovirus**: This vaccine protects against canine hepatitis, which affects the liver.

In addition to core vaccines, there are non-core vaccines that may be recommended based on your dog's lifestyle, such as:
- **Bordetella** (kennel cough)
- **Lyme disease**
- **Leptospirosis**

Preventative care also includes regular check-ups with your veterinarian, parasite control (like flea and tick prevention), dental care, and a balanced diet. Regular vet visits ensure that your dog is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. It's also a good idea to keep an eye on your dog's behavior and health at home. Look for changes in appetite, energy levels, or any unusual symptoms, and report these to your vet.

For puppies, vaccinations typically start at around 6-8 weeks of age and continue every few weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. Adult dogs will need booster shots periodically, so consult your vet for a vaccination schedule that works for your pet.

Overall, keeping your dog vaccinated and maintaining a preventative care routine is essential for a long, happy, and healthy life. Don't hesitate to ask your veterinarian about the best vaccination and preventative care plan for your dog based on their age, health status, and lifestyle.

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