If you have or are considering adopting a puppy, then you are probably going through the new owner checklist. You know, the list that reminds you to buy dog food, pick out a crate, and schedule the veterinarian examinations. Once you get to the "veterinarian examinations" portion of the checklist, you have probably realized that section has a checklist of its own. For your new pup's health, it is important that you get him vaccinated. Exactly which vaccinations your pooch needs depends upon the area in which you live, but some vaccinations are required throughout the country.
Vaccinations are important for the health and wellbeing of your pet. If you live in an area where ticks are rampant but you forget to have your pooch protected against Lyme disease, then a single tick bite could be deadly. The same is true for rabies, hepatitis, and distemper, among other diseases. So, first thing's first: take your pup straight to the veterinarian. Your veterinarian can help you figure out what your pooch needs and when he needs it.
There are a handful of vaccines that are given no matter what part of the region you reside. Other vaccines may be tailored to the area where you live, such as the previous Lyme disease example. Your state, and possibly region, has laws on what exactly your dog needs to be protected. Not only is this for the safety of your dog, but it is to prevent the spread of the disease to other animals, or even people, in the community. So, keep this in mind if you think your pooch does not need an injection: you may be putting others at risk.
Most, but not all, areas in the United States require Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Rabies. Typically, these immunizations are given at the same time, depending on the age of the puppy. They are then repeated after one year, known as a "booster" shot. The booster shots should be repeated every three years, extending the dog's life. As mentioned before, the state in which you reside may require additional vaccinations, or the state may require a distinct booster schedule.
Other vaccinations that depend on the veterinarian or the area where you live include coronavirus, Bordatella, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, and Lyme disease. Don't be afraid to talk to your veterinarian about the necessity of these vaccinations. Also, don't rule out the vaccinations just because they may be optional. If the Lyme disease vaccination is not required in your area, then you may choose not to have your pet vaccinated. However, if you travel to a place where Lyme disease thrives, then you may choose to have your pet inoculated before your departure.
In addition to veterinarian or state requirements, many travel accommodations have their own requirements. If you plan on leaving your pooch in a kennel while you are away, realize that it is not uncommon for the kennel to require your pet to have had the Bordatella vaccination. This keeps kennel cough (an extremely fast-spreading sickness) from plaguing the kennel. Resorts and day cares that cater to animals may also have their own requirements, especially if the animal will be staying overnight.
With all of these possible vaccinations, what should you do? First of all, talk to your veterinarian. Figure out what is required in your area and what is recommended. If you want time to consider, then go ahead and let your pooch have the required vaccinations while you research the optional ones. If you plan on traveling or leaving your pooch at a pet facility, then check with the destination on what additional vaccinations your pooch needs. It is a good idea to plan ahead, since many facilities require a specific period of time between the inoculation and boarding.
Vaccinations are an important part of preventative care. Depending upon where you live, there are certain sicknesses and diseases that can plague your pooch; vaccinations can help protect him and others in the community. Talk to your vet about which vaccines are required and which are optional. Then, do your own research to decide whether or not your pet needs the optional vaccinations. If you plan on traveling, then don't forget to check with your destination about additional vaccinations required for your pet.
This article was written by Katie with Discount Pet Mall. A great website for deals on dog carriers, pet gates, and pet crates. |
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