Dog Vaccinations
Dog vaccinations are an essential part of preventative care. At Georgetown Animal Hospital in Georgetown, we offer vaccinations as part of our preventative care services.
Why Are Dog Vaccinations Important?
Just like humans, dogs need vaccinations to keep them healthy. Vaccines allow your dog's immune system to develop antibodies, which provide immunity from common contagious diseases. Vaccines are designed to protect your dog from diseases that can seriously affect their health or be fatal. These diseases are often highly contagious and may be caught from other dogs or wildlife. Some diseases, including rabies, leptospirosis, and lyme disease can affect humans as well as dogs.
Which Vaccinations Do Dogs Need?
Vaccine recommendations for your pet are recommended based on their lifestyle. There are certain vaccinations that our doctors recommend for all patients because of environmental factors. These vaccines include rabies and lyme, as well as a Da2PLP vaccination protects against parvo and leptospirosis as well as a few other core illnesses. There are additional vaccinations that may be recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle such as bordetella and canine influenza.
Vaccinations are a safe and essential part of canine wellness care!
Dog Vaccine Schedule
After your dog has completed the initial booster process (for adult dogs it is generally recommended to receive two sets of vaccinations 3-4 weeks apart), it will need to return once yearly for a physical exam and to booster these vaccines. Prior to your pet receiving vaccinations, they will receive a comprehensive physical examination. Frequent exams are a good way for your veterinarian to keep an eye on your pet’s overall health and wellbeing.
Puppy Vaccine Schedule
Puppies have to receive vaccinations more frequently than adults because of the way that their immune system works. Vaccines start when a puppy is approximately 6 weeks old and are boostered every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. Each time they come in for an appointment (about once a month) they will receive an exam. This is a good way for us to ensure they are meeting puppy milestones as well as monitor for congenital defects. Some breeds that are more susceptible to certain diseases have their boosters carried out until 20-22 weeks of age. After completing their puppy vaccines, dogs will return annually for a comprehensive physical exam and booster vaccines.
Dog Vaccinations at Georgetown Animal Hospital
If your dog needs vaccinations in Georgetown, contact Georgetown Animal Hospital at (937) 378-6334. We offer vaccines, along with treatment for common pet illnesses and conditions.