WHEN TO VACCINATE
Puppies can start their first shot at 8 weeks with a full, detailed physical exam. Subsequent shots are at 30 day intervals and are given by the nurses after a brief exam. The best protection against disease is given by repeated vaccination at 30 day intervals through the 5th month of age. This is when your puppy's immunity is in full swing and ready to protect him.
Adult dogs should receive booster vaccinations annually.
This is the main vaccine that needs to be on a strict schedule to comply with state and local laws and for a good reason...the disease is 100% fatal. This vaccine can be given as early as 12 weeks of age. The first time your dog gets this vaccine, no matter how old he is, the vaccine must be boostered 1 year later. Subsequent vaccination is at 3 year intervals if not allowed to become over due.
Since this disease is transmissable to humans (zoonotic), vaccination also protects you and your family. If your dog happens to bite someone and the rabies vaccination is not current and documentable, then your dog may either be sacrificed and have his brain tested (after being decapitated), or the authorities may decide to quarantine him at your expense for up to 6 months. It is always easier to get vaccinated. The county provides low cost services a couple times a year for this vaccination opportunity. There is no excuse to not vaccinate for this disease! Dogs that are not subsequently vaccinated, but have proof of a blood titer only, will still be considered a nonvaccinate in the eyes of the law.
This is the initial vaccine that an 8 week old pup should start off with and it is boostered as needed. The combination of distemper, adenovirus, parvo, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis are considered standard protection against what may lurk in your dog's environment. We recently added the Leptospirosis to the mix due to this disease being spread through water where racoon, deer, skunk, bobcat, coyote, mice, and opossum may live. These can be taylored to meet your pet's individual needs and requirements at shows or boarding facilities. We do see a fair amount of parvovirus in dogs up to 18 months of age so it is important to protect against it. We tend to see more of this disease in Rottweilers and Pit Bulls and in 12-20 week olds that have never been vaccinated.
Distemper virus can lead to permanent nervous system damage and or fatal respiratory disease. The other viruses can be debilitating as well and can cost hundreds of dollars to treat. Again, it is easy to vaccinate for and there are low cost alternatives that can help you protect your dog. There is no excuse to not vaccinate your dog for these diseases!
BORDETELLA/KENNEL COUGH VACCINATION
This vaccine is administered by oral dropper onto membranes. This method and type of vaccine delivers almost immediate protection against this disease syndrome. Your dog will be able to go to the groomer, dog show, or boarding facility within 24 hours of administration.
Rattlesnake, Giardia, Corona, and Lymes are considered non-essential vaccines at this facility and by most veterinarians. As conditions change and or more research qualifies these vaccines, their use will be considered.