Vaccinations play a vital role in maintaining your dog’s overall health and preventing serious diseases. As a responsible pet parent, you want to ensure that your furry friend receives their vaccinations on time to avoid unnecessary health risks. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about dog vaccinations, when they should be given, and how they help protect your pet.
At North Care Animal Hospital, we understand how important vaccinations are for your dog’s health, which is why we offer expert vaccination services at our North Vancouver Animal Hospital and West Vancouver Animal Hospital. Whether you are a first-time pet parent or looking for expert advice, we are here to help with all your dog’s vaccination needs.
Why Are Dog Vaccinations Important?
Vaccinations are essential in protecting your dog against harmful diseases, some of which are contagious and can be fatal. Vaccines stimulate your dog’s immune system to produce antibodies that fight specific infections. Regular vaccinations help ensure that your dog is well-prepared to fight off illnesses and stay healthy.
Some of the most common diseases that vaccines protect against include:
Distemper
Parvovirus
Canine Hepatitis
Rabies
Leptospirosis
In addition to the core vaccines, some dogs may also need additional vaccines depending on their lifestyle and exposure to certain risk factors. Our team at North Care Animal Hospital is happy to assess your dog’s specific needs and guide you through the vaccination schedule.
When Should Your Dog Get Vaccinated?
Knowing when to vaccinate your dog is crucial to ensure they receive the right shots at the right time. Puppies and adult dogs both need to follow a vaccination schedule, but their needs differ. Here’s a breakdown of the vaccination timeline:
| Age of Dog | Vaccine Type | First Dose | Booster Shot |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6-8 Weeks | Distemper, Parvovirus, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza | First dose | 3-4 weeks later |
| 10-12 Weeks | Distemper, Parvovirus, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis | Second dose | 3-4 weeks later |
| 12-16 Weeks | Rabies, Bordetella (Kennel Cough) | Third dose | 1 year later |
| 16 Weeks+ (Puppy) | Leptospirosis, Lyme Disease (if needed) | Final puppy shots | Annual boosters |
| 1 Year (Adult) | Rabies (required by law) | First annual booster | Annually or as required by law |
Note: The timeline may vary based on your dog’s health and lifestyle. For example, if your dog frequently interacts with other pets or spends time in high-risk areas, they may need additional vaccines.
If you’re unsure about your dog’s vaccination schedule, contact us at North Care Animal Hospital to discuss your pet’s specific needs.
Core and Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs
Core Vaccines
These vaccines are essential for all dogs and are typically required by law in many regions. They help protect your dog from the most common and dangerous diseases.
Distemper
Distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that can affect a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. It can be fatal, but vaccination helps reduce the risk.Parvovirus
Parvovirus is a severe and highly contagious viral infection that causes severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration in puppies. It can be deadly if left untreated.Hepatitis (Adenovirus Type 1)
Hepatitis is a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to permanent damage. The vaccine prevents this infection from spreading.Rabies
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system and can be transmitted through bites from infected animals. Rabies vaccinations are required by law in most regions.
Non-Core Vaccines
These vaccines are recommended based on your dog’s lifestyle and risk factors. For example, dogs that board at kennels, visit dog parks, or spend time outdoors may need some of these additional vaccines.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can cause liver and kidney failure in dogs. It’s spread through contact with contaminated water or soil.Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
Bordetella is a highly contagious respiratory disease often spread in crowded places, such as dog parks and kennels.Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is transmitted through ticks and can lead to joint pain and kidney failure. It is especially common in regions where ticks are prevalent.
What Happens During Your Dog’s Vaccination Visit?
When you bring your dog to our North Vancouver Animal Hospital, our experienced veterinarians will perform a thorough physical examination to ensure your dog is healthy enough for vaccination. We will review your pet’s medical history and lifestyle to recommend the right vaccination plan.
Our staff will:
Administer the necessary vaccinations according to your dog’s age and health.
Answer any questions or concerns you may have about the vaccines.
Provide aftercare instructions and monitor your dog for any potential side effects.
At North Care Animal Hospital, we strive to make the vaccination process as stress-free as possible. We offer walk-in veterinary services for added convenience, and we also provide in-home mobile vet services for pets who are anxious about visiting the clinic.
Signs That Your Dog Needs Immediate Veterinary Attention
While most dogs experience mild symptoms after vaccinations, some may show signs of a severe allergic reaction or other issues. If your dog exhibits any of the following symptoms after receiving a vaccine, contact our Pet Emergency Services immediately:
Difficulty breathing
Swelling around the face or neck
Vomiting or diarrhea
Excessive lethargy or weakness
Seizures or tremors
We are here to provide 24/7 emergency care at both our North Vancouver and West Vancouver locations, ensuring that your dog is always protected.
Why Choose North Care Animal Hospital for Your Dog’s Vaccinations?
At North Care Animal Hospital, we offer expert vaccination services in a welcoming and compassionate environment. We understand that every dog has unique health needs, and our veterinarians work closely with you to create a tailored vaccination plan that will protect your pet for years to come.
Additionally, our close proximity to West Vancouver allows us to serve a broader community. If you’re looking for a reliable animal hospital near West Vancouver, we encourage you to visit us for all your dog’s vaccination needs. For added convenience, we also offer walk-in services and in-home mobile vet services for a stress-free experience.
Contact Us Today for Your Dog’s Vaccination Appointment!
Protect your dog’s health by ensuring they receive their vaccinations on time. If you’re in North Vancouver or West Vancouver, contact North Care Animal Hospital today to schedule a vaccination appointment for your dog. Whether you prefer to visit us in person or use our mobile vet services, we’re here to ensure your pet stays happy, healthy, and safe.