The Core Vaccines Your Pet Needs
The Core Vaccines Your Pet Needs
Introduction To Dog Vaccines
Keeping your pet healthy starts with prevention. Just like humans, pets require routine vaccinations to protect them from serious diseases. Core vaccines are essential for both dogs and cats, while additional lifestyle vaccines may be recommended based on your pet’s environment and activities.
In this guide, we’ll break down the core vaccines your pet needs and explain their importance.
Rabies Vaccine
Rabies is a fatal disease that affects the nervous system and is transmitted through bites from infected animals, such as rodents. This vaccine is required by law in many regions.
First dose: labeled for 12 weeks of age, but recommended at 16 weeks of age.
Booster: After 1 year, then every 3 years
DA2PP Vaccine
This combination vaccine protects against multiple serious diseases:
Canine Distemper – A virus affecting MAINLY the nervous system
Canine Adenovirus 1 – Causes canine hepatitis
Canine Adenovirus 2 – Leads to respiratory infections
Canine Parainfluenza – A contagious respiratory virus
Canine Parvovirus – A severe gastrointestinal virus
Bordetella Vaccine (Kennel Cough)
Bordetella is a bacterial infection linked to Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC), commonly known as “Kennel Cough.”
Recommended for dogs that visit dog parks, grooming salons, boarding facilities, or daycare.
Leptospirosis Vaccine
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can affect both dogs and humans. It is commonly found in water sources like lakes and rivers and can also be spread by rodents.
Lyme Vaccine
Lyme disease is transmitted through bites from infected black-legged ticks (deer ticks). Symptoms in dogs include fever, joint pain, sluggishness, and swollen lymph nodes.
Canine Influenza Vaccine
Canine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection. The two main strains in the U.S. are H3N8 and H3N2. Dogs that visit kennels, groomers, or shelters are at higher risk.
FVRCP Vaccine
This essential vaccine protects against three common feline diseases:
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis Virus – A respiratory infection
Feline Calicivirus – Causes upper respiratory and oral disease
Feline Panleukopenia Virus – A highly contagious virus affecting multiple body systems
FeLV Vaccine (Feline Leukemia Virus)
FeLV is one of the most infectious diseases in cats and can lead to anemia, immune suppression, and even cancer. It spreads through bite wounds, deep scratches, and shared food and water bowls.
Schedule Your Pet’s Consultation Today!
Contact Urban Pawz Animal Clinic to schedule your pet’s consultation. Our team is ready to help your pet recover and thrive with our professional, community-centered approach to veterinary care.
