Common Questions About Vaccinations

 

Common concerns about vaccinations are a priority for dog owners. Perhaps, the most common question is whether the dog needs to be given vaccination in the first week of age or not.  Dogs need not be vaccinated within the first five to six weeks of age.  Can the parvoviral vaccine can be used in first week of life? No, as this will interfere with maternal antibody levels already present.  But, if the mother did not receive vaccinations, then vaccinations against the parvoviral infections and measles should be given.

Another common question is whether the dog is to be given vaccinations for bordetella disease and lyme disease.  While these vaccines are optional, it really depends on the risk in the area.

Can a pregnant dog be vaccinated?  Yes. Two to three weeks previous to expected pregnancy, the dog should be vaccinated against viral diseases. This helps to provide maternal antibodies to the young one to be given birth.

Is the rabies vaccine really important for the dog?  Yes, as it is necessary for the prevention of rabies in populations.  When anti-rabies vaccine is given, what precautions need to be taken?  The rabies vaccine is given at thirteen to fifteen weeks of age and needs to be repeated at fifteen months and again at three years.  It is of utmost importance that all dogs are given this vaccine.

Is the canine distemper vaccination necessary for dogs?  Yes!  There is a specific veterinary requirement  for the vaccination of dogs against canine distemper.  This disease is prevalent in most of countries. 

Is there any vaccination against leptospirosis, and at what age should the dog be vaccinated?   leptospirosis vaccination is given at the age of six to eight weeks, again at thetenth to twelfth weeks, and once more at thirteen to sixteen weeks of age.