Dog Vaccinations
Dog vaccinations are a central component of preventative care that veterinarians recommend for the good health and well-being of your pets. Dog and puppy vaccines work by introducing a small, harmless part of a disease-causing organism into the dog or puppy's body. This small piece effectively stimulates your pet's immune system, helping it develop strong defenses against the disease. If your pet encounters the actual disease it's been vaccinated for, their immune system will be prepared to fight it off. Our team at Pine Castle Animal Care Center in Orlando is here to help your canine friends get the protection they need.
The Core Dog and Puppy Vaccines You'll Want
When it comes to puppies and dogs, our team recommends the following important vaccines as part of their annual wellness check-up and preventative care visit:
- Rabies Vaccine: Rabies is a very dangerous disease that can be transferred to different species of mammals, including humans, through the bite of an infected animal. This highly lethal disease has no known cure, but because all cats and dogs must stay updated on their rabies vaccines by law, it is also very rare.
- Distemper Vaccine: Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that impacts a dog's organ systems. Dogs are most susceptible when they are puppies, but can still get very sick with this disease at any age if they aren't properly vaccinated.
- Parvovirus Vaccine: Parvovirus is another canine viral disease and is considered a leading cause of death in young puppies. Early vaccination is critical to keep them safe and protected.
- Bordetella Vaccine: Bordetella, also known as kennel cough, isn't as serious as the above diseases, but it can cause a dog to be sick for several weeks and may pose a more serious threat for puppies, older dogs, and those with compromised immune systems. It is also one of the most contagious canine viruses, often required by dog parks, group training facilities, and dog boarding facilities prior to admittance. As such, we strongly recommend all dogs and puppies receive either an annual or even six-month Bordetella vaccine.
- Leptospirosis Vaccine: Here in Orlando, where we have many lakes and swamp areas, there is a heightened risk of carrying the bacterial disease known as leptospirosis. Leptospirosis can impact both dogs and humans and is caught via contact with contaminated water sources. The leptospirosis vaccine can prevent the disease from spreading to your pet if they come into contact with it.
Schedule Your Puppy Vaccines With Our Veterinarians
We hope this information answers some questions you might have about which vaccines your puppy will need and why. Are you looking for a veterinarian near you? The next step is to schedule your pet's visit at Pine Castle Animal Care Center in Orlando and keep them up-to-date on these vital disease-fighting vaccines.
