Vaccines for Puppies

By Published On: October 7th, 2024Categories: Uncategorized0 Comments on Vaccines for Puppies

What is a Vaccine?

A vaccine is a preparation administered into the body to mimic an infection, teaching your dog’s immune system to fight against disease. Vaccines contain live, killed, or altered versions of the target microorganism (virus, bacteria, etc.) that cause a certain disease. These microorganisms are modified so that they lose the ability to cause disease in your dog. When a dog is vaccinated, their immune system learns to recognize these intruders quickly. This means that if your dog is exposed to the disease in the future, they are less likely to become severely ill.

Vaccine Administration

The method of administration for a vaccine is chosen based on its ability to achieve maximum stimulation of the immune system. Some vaccines are given orally or intranasal (into the nose), but most require injection. Injectable vaccines are either administered subcutaneously (just under the skin) or intramuscularly (into the muscle).

Core Vaccines

‘Core’ vaccines are those recommended for all dogs, regardless of age or environment. Below is a list of core vaccines recommended by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA):

  • Dhpp – includes canine distemper virus, canine adenovirus-2 (hepatitis), and canine parvovirus
  • Rabies virus
  • Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough)

Non-Core Vaccines

‘Non-core’ vaccines refer to those that are not necessary for all dogs, but may be recommended depending on your dog’s lifestyle. Talk to your veterinarian to determine which vaccines are right for your dog. Examples of non-core vaccines include:

  • Leptospira species
  • Borrelia bugforferi (Lyme disease)
  • CPIV – canine parainfluenza virus
  • Flu – canine influenza virus

Vaccine Reactions

One to two days after vaccination, some dogs may develop lethargy, soreness, or a lump at the site of administration. These signs are normal, but if a lump persists for more than a few weeks, consult your veterinarian. In rare cases, dogs can develop a severe allergic reaction to the vaccine. These reactions usually occur within minutes after administration, but can be delayed up to a few hours. Signs of a severe reaction include salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, hives, or difficulty breathing. If your dog develops any of these signs, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Why do you need to revaccinate?

The best immunity from a vaccine develops a few weeks after administration. Over time, a dog’s immune system will lose it’s ‘memory’ of a microorganism, at which point they need to be revaccinated. The rate with which this immunity wanes will depend on the vaccine and your individual dog. For young puppies, whose immune systems are immature, multiple vaccine boosters will be required to develop their initial immunity. In adults, this immunity can be maintained through regular vaccination. As vaccines have improved, the frequency of revaccination has decreased. There are now some formulations of core vaccines that can be administered every three years, while others are administered annually. In general, non-core vaccines are administered annually. Your veterinarian will discuss the need and frequency of revaccination for your dog based on their needs and lifestyle.

 

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