Dog vaccinations have come under a lot of scrutiny in recent times. Some experts are of the opinion that annual booster shots should be dumped in favor of a three year cycle. Others contest that annual shots as a must to ensure that a dog is protected against communicable diseases.

While the ideal frequency may be debated, few dispute the fact that vaccinations are a must. Millions of dogs all over the world are vaccinated every year, and only a tiny percentage have any adverse reaction.

The current crop of vaccines we have available may not be perfect, but they do protect your dog against the major diseases. An unvaccinated dog on the other hand is almost certain to become ill at some time, so why risk it? Until there is evidence to support the view that vaccines are ineffective or dangerous, it is definitely a good idea to have your dog vaccinated.

Dog vaccinations protect against the most common canine diseases including, parvovirus, distemper and rabies. The initial shots are given to a puppy between the age of 6 and 8 weeks. Thereafter shots are given at scheduled intervals until the pup is 15 weeks old. Booster shots are then given annually, although some veterinarians recommend once every three years.

The core vaccines are given in combination and are normally referred to as a 5 in 1. This protects against the following diseases;

Canine Distemper: Distemper is a highly contagious and usually fatal disease. Left untreated it causes seizures, convulsions, heart failure, and respiratory failure. It is transmitted by a healthy dog coming into contact with discharge from the eyes or nose of an infected dog.

Canine Hepatitis: Usually spread by the saliva, urine or faeces of an infected dog, this diseases attacks the abdominal organs and is usually fatal within 10 days.

Leptospirosis: Transmitted via the urine of an infected dog, this bacterial disease, targets the digestive system, liver and kidneys, causing severe damage and usually resulting in death.

Parainfluenza: A form of kennel cough that is spread by contact or through the air. Highly contagious.

Parvovirus: An extremely contagious viral disease that has a particularly high mortality rate among young and old dogs. Parvo mainly attacks the intestinal tract, lymphoid tissue, and immune system, usually resulting in death if not treated.

In addition to these core vaccines, your dog will usually also be inoculated against rabies.

Why Dog Vaccinations Are Important

Dog vaccinations are important for a number of reasons, chief of which is the health of your pet. But there are many other valid reasons for vaccinating your dog, some of them required by law.

Many cities require a vaccination certificate as part of their licensing criteria, while you’ll also need to provide proof for international travel or booking into a dog-friendly resort or hotel. All reputable kenneling, dog training and doggy dog care facilities will also ask for proof of vaccination.

These are all valid reasons for having your dog vaccinated, but the most important reason of all is still the quality of life of your pet.

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