Top Dog Vaccines: Is Your Dog Fully Protected?
Posted on: 2 April 2015
Most communities require that dogs be vaccinated for diseases like rabies and distemper. Additionally, puppies receive a series of vaccinations to protect them from disease throughout their lives. But, did you know that there are other vaccines available for your dog? Talk to your vet about some of these less-common medications that can help your dog stay healthy and strong.
Kennel Cough
Bordetella is a disease that can cause an annoying, hacking cough in dogs. It is easily transferred from one dog to another, and severe cases can be deadly.
The kennel cough vaccine is typically recommended for dogs who spend a lot of time in the company of other dogs. It may be required by kennels, doggie day care and professional dog walkers.
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease can be very serious in dogs, causing their legs to become weak and their kidney function to decline. Lyme disease is spread by ticks and is more common in some parts of the country than in others.
If your dog already takes medication to prevent fleas, you might find that the treatment provides protection from ticks as well. If your dog spends a lot of time in and around the woods and tends to get tick bites, consider the Lyme disease vaccination.
Flu Shots
Yes, there is a flu shot available for your dog. Canine influenza, or H3N8, is similar to a flu that you might contract. Dog flu is highly contagious and can be a particular problem for dogs who attend day care, who travel to dog shows or who spend a lot of time around other dogs.
People can also be responsible for passing the dog flu from one dog to another. If you are worried about the flu in your precious pooch, you can have your dog vaccinated.
Canine Leptospira
Leptospira is a bacterial infection that can cause fever, vomiting, pain and other symptoms in dogs. Dogs who go untreated for the disease can have kidney or liver problems. The disease is typically treated with antibiotics but can be prevented completely with a vaccination.
Rattlesnake Vaccine
Most dogs will never encounter a rattlesnake, but you might consider this vaccine if you live in an area where rattlesnakes live and hide. This vaccination will protect your dog from the venom in a rattlesnake bite.
Deciding which vaccines to get for your dog can be complicated. Talk to your vet or Edinburgh Animal Hospital about your dog's risks and whether these vaccinations are right for your furry friend.
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