Vaccination for Dogs and Puppies
To prevent the development of many diseases, it is very important to vaccinate your pet. At Hôpital vétérinaire Taschereau, we will determine the vaccines that are adapted to your dog’s age and lifestyle.
Which vaccines exist for dogs?
The core vaccine, called DHPP, given to all dogs, offers protection against these four serious diseases: distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza and parvovirus.
The vaccine for leptospirosis protects your companion from a bacterium that could be contracted in water contaminated by the urine of wild animals.
The vaccine against Lyme disease will not prevent a tick from biting your pet, but it will greatly reduce the risk of your pet developing this disease, which is increasingly prevalent in our area.
The vaccine against rabies is strongly recommended because this fatal disease is spread through a bite from an infected animal and can also be passed on to humans. Please note that this vaccine is often required when travelling abroad with your companion.
Finally, the Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine protects your pet from contaminated airborne nasal and oral secretions. This vaccine is often required in kennels and grooming salons. It is also highly recommended to dog owners who frequent dog parks.
At around what age should my puppy be vaccinated?
We usually begin vaccinating puppies at around eight weeks old. Your puppy will start by receiving a first dose of the core DHPP vaccine. A DHPP booster will be given at 12 weeks, along with the combination of the vaccine against leptospirosis and Lyme disease. At 16 weeks, other boosters for DHPP, leptospirosis and Lyme disease will be given. We will also take this opportunity to protect your pet against rabies and kennel cough (Bordetella). This vaccination schedule offers optimal protection.
Does my dog need to be vaccinated every year?
Some vaccines will have to be given annually and others every two or three years depending on the age and medical history of your pet. Your veterinarian will make sure your companion receives the best protection possible. Even if your dog has never been vaccinated, you should know that it is never too late to start protecting them.
Why is vaccination important for my pet?
A puppy’s immune system is very weak. The risk of catching a disease is therefore much greater. Vaccination can prevent this by delivering antibodies that will help the organism defend itself. Since some diseases can be fatal and even spread to humans, vaccination is still the best way to eradicate these diseases from our environment and offer your pet a happy, healthy life.