What Dog Vaccinations are Needed for My Canine in Searcy, AR?

As a responsible dog owner, it’s important to understand which vaccinations your pet needs and learn how you can keep up with them. It can feel overwhelming sometimes, trying to determine your dog’s vaccination requirements, and if you’re feeling confused by them, you’re not alone.

In the article below, you’ll learn more about the vaccinations that are either required or recommended for dogs. With the help of this information, you can figure out what to ask our veterinarian in Searcy, AR, at your dog’s next appointment.

The Types of Vaccinations Dogs Need

Bordetella

Bordetella is one of the types of bacteria that can cause kennel cough. It is the most common underlying cause of kennel cough, but you can easily protect your pet from contracting this disease by having her vaccinated against it as soon as possible.

Although most dogs do not die from kennel cough, it can be very uncomfortable and may take several weeks for your pet to recover. Additionally, very young puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with underlying health conditions may be at risk of serious complications from kennel cough.

Parvovirus

Parvovirus is a very common disease that is sadly often fatal to young puppies. For this reason, the parvovirus vaccination is one of the first shots most puppies will receive, and they should be vaccinated against this disease before ever leaving their mothers and going to their new homes.

Parvovirus causes severe, bloody diarrhea as well as vomiting. Young puppies will dehydrate very quickly from this disease and often won’t survive. Older dogs may survive, but will have a very difficult road to recovery when dealing with parvovirus, so it’s best to keep them vaccinated throughout their lives as well.

Distemper

Distemper is another common disease that unfortunately takes the lives of puppies. This disease mostly affects the respiratory system, although it can also impact the digestive and nervous systems in severe cases too. It often causes dogs to suffer serious breathing difficulties which can be fatal to young puppies.

This disease is another early vaccination for dogs. If you are adopting a new puppy, it is crucial for her to be vaccinated against distemper before she goes home with you. She will also need several distemper boosters throughout her first year, and should keep up with annual distemper boosters after that, too.

Canine Influenza

Canine influenza is not always required by vets, but it is becoming a more and more common vaccination that is important in many locations. Canine influenza is a serious and sometimes fatal condition that affects senior dogs and puppies more than healthy adult dogs. In some areas, there are outbreaks of this disease that can be difficult to get under control.

Canine influenza vaccinations should be given after a new puppy has reached a few months of age, and then should be given as booster shots every year after that. Your vet can let you know if this vaccination is recommended for your dog.

Lyme Disease

Some dogs can go their whole lives without needing a Lyme disease vaccination, and your vet will be able to tell you for sure whether or not your dog needs this shot. However, if your pet is very active outdoors, spends a lot of time hiking or enjoying the wilderness with you, or lives in an area that is known to have a lot of Lyme disease already, this vaccination is strongly recommended.

Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness that can cause serious, lifelong symptoms in dogs. Dogs may suffer from stiffness, muscle pain, joint pain, and a host of other health problems as a result of Lyme disease.

Rabies

Finally, the rabies vaccination is required by law in most of the United States and in many places around the world, too. This shot is crucial in preventing your dog from contracting rabies, which can be spread between mammals through saliva.

Rabies is always fatal and is extremely contagious. It is fatal to humans in many cases, too, and dogs can give it to their human family members. This serious illness can be completely avoided by having your dog vaccinated against it every year and sticking to that schedule.

Need to Schedule Your Dog’s Vaccinations? Our Animal Clinic in Searcy, AR, Can Help

With this information to help you along, you can now understand which shots your dog might have already gotten and which ones she may still need. By keeping up with your pet’s regular vaccination schedule and needs, you can ensure she has a healthy life free from some of the most common dog ailments.

If you have any further questions or concerns about your pet’s wellness or health needs, you can reach out to our Searcy, AR, animal clinic for more information and to schedule your dog’s exam. We can answer questions specific to your dog and help you understand your dog’s individual requirements even better.