Your dog needs to have regular vaccinations in order to stay healthy. If you want to bring your dog to public places, such as on the airplane, work, or school, it is often required your dog have these vaccinations. Each state has its own laws governing the administration of the rabies vaccine. Some areas require yearly rabies vaccination. Other areas call for vaccines every three years. In almost all states, proof of rabies vaccination is mandatory.
These are the most common vaccinations for dogs:
- Rabies (this can be spread to people)
- Canine parvovirus infection (“parvo”)
- Canine distemper
- Leptospirosis
- Canine adenovirus-2
- Canine parainfluenza
- Canine enteric coronavirus
- Canine influenza
- Lyme disease
- Bordetellosis (“kennel cough”)
- Heartworm disease
- Intestinal worms (roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, etc., some of which can also infect people)
Puppies should receive a series of vaccinations starting at six to eight weeks of age. A veterinarian should administer a minimum of three vaccinations at three- to four-week intervals. The final dose should be administered at 16 weeks of age.
Some adult dogs might receive certain vaccines annually, while other vaccines might be given every three years or longer.
If you’re unsure about your dog’s vaccination status, call our office to schedule an appointment.