Types of Vaccinations to Prevent Your Pet from Diseases

If proper vaccination is not given to your pets, they may be at risk of infectious diseases. There are different types of vaccines depending on the age and medical condition of your pet. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) categorizes vaccines mainly as core and non-core. Core vaccines can be given to all pets whereas non-core vaccines can be given based on your pet’s lifestyle or geographical location.

Core Vaccines:

·         Canine Distemper: This vaccine is given for respiratory, nervous and gastrointestinal infections. The first dose should be given at the age of 8 weeks.  The dose should be repeated every 2-4 weeks until 16 weeks and then the final dose after one year.  

·         Infectious Hepatitis: Hepatitis vaccine prevents against Adenovirus 1 and 2. Adenovirus 1 causes liver diseases while Adenovirus 2 causes respiratory illness.

·         Canine Parvovirus: This virus causes severe vomiting and diarrhoea. The first dose should be given at the age of 8 weeks. The dose should be repeated every 2-4 weeks until 16 weeks and then the final dose after one year.

·         Parainfluenza: It affects the respiratory system and may cause kennel cough. Start vaccination at 8 weeks and then repeat every 2-4 weeks until 16 weeks and then annual boosters.

·         Rabies: It affects the central nervous system and can be fatal. The first dose should be given at the age of 12-16 weeks while the second at 1 year and repeat after 1-3 years depending on the vaccine used. It is advised that the doses should be given according to state law.

Non-core Vaccines:

Below vaccinations are not used routinely as they are based on geographical locations and should be given after consulting with your veterinarian.

·         Bordetella: It’s bacterial infection which may cause kennel cough. Start vaccination at 8 weeks and then repeat every 2-4 weeks until 16 weeks and then annual boosters.

·         Leptospirosis bacterins: This bacteria affect liver and kidney. The first dose should be given at 12 weeks and then repeat at 14-16 weeks.

·         Lyme Disease: Lyme disease is a bacterial and causes arthritis. It may also cause kidney disease.

·        Corona Virus: It mainly causes diarrhoea. Start vaccination at the age of 8 weeks, repeat after 2-4 weeks until 16 weeks and then give annual booster.

·        Giardia: This protozoal parasite causes intestinal infection. By some vets, it is considered as an optional vaccine.

·         Canine Influenza H3N8: It’s a relatively new influenza virus in dogs and is very contagious.

·         Canine parainfluenza: This is a major virus in kennel cough. The first dose should be given at the age of 8-12 weeks and second dose at 16 weeks of age.

So, go ahead and get your pet vaccinated for his or her better health as instructed by veterinarians.

Reference: 

          Noncore Dog Vaccinations |  Vaccines for Dogs