Why are Dog Vaccinations Important?

Dogs can be vaccinated against many diseases by introducing a weakened or inactivated form of the disease into the dog’s body. The dog’s body then develops antibodies and forms a “memory” so that if it encounters the disease again in the future, the immune system will quickly and efficiently respond to fight it off.

Not only does vaccinating your dog keep him safe, but it also limits the transmission of infections throughout the larger dog community; specifically protecting puppies, elderly and immunocompromised dogs.

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Core vs. Non-Core Dog Vaccinations

Veterinarians have classified vaccines into two categories; core and non-core to provide an individualized approach for each dog’s unique risk factors, lifestyle, and overall health.

All dogs should receive these vaccinations. Regardless of breed, age, or environment. They provide protection from serious diseases that can be life threatening, highly contagious and fatal.

Only recommended based on individual dog exposure risks. Your veterinarian will recommend them as necessary.

This viral disease affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal & nervous systems and can cause fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, paralysis & death.

Helps protect against infectious canine hepatitis and reduces the severity of certain Kennel Cough linked respiratory infections. Hepatitis is a potentially fatal liver disease.

This deadly viral disease is very contagious and most commonly causes sudden-onset vomiting & bloody diarrhoea, leading to rapid dehydration.

A deadly viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. Many countries, including the UAE, require legally mandated Rabies vaccination for all dogs.

Recommended for any dog that has frequent contact with other dogs, such as boarding facilities, daycare or dog parks.

A highly contagious respiratory infection that causes symptoms including coughing, sneezing, fever and general illness.

An increasingly common bacterial disease spreads through infected animals or contaminated water sources, which can cause kidney and liver damage.

A tick-borne bacterial disease characterized by symptoms that include fever, joint pain and lameness found primarily in regions where tick exposure is common.

Recommended Dog Vaccination Schedules

The recommended dog vaccination schedule is developed based upon the need for dogs to be protected through all stages of development.

Puppy Vaccination Schedule

Puppies should start vaccinations at 6 to 8 weeks of age and continue every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks old. A typical puppy vaccination schedule would include:

Puppies should start vaccinations at 6 to 8 weeks of age and continue every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks old. A typical puppy vaccination schedule would include:

6-8

Weeks

The first combination vaccine (DHPPi) is administered which protects the dog against distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza.

10-12

Weeks

The second combination vaccine (DHPPiL) is administered providing additional protection against leptospirosis. In addition, other non-core vaccines such as Bordetella may be recommended for the first time.

14-16

Weeks

This is the final booster of DHPPiL and rabies vaccination.

Adult Dogs Vaccinations

Following completion of the puppy vaccination series, adult dogs will need to continue receiving vaccinations regularly to ensure they remain immune to diseases throughout their lifetimes.

Following completion of the puppy vaccination series, adult dogs will need to continue receiving vaccinations regularly to ensure they remain immune to diseases throughout their lifetimes.

1-3

Years

Annual boosters

Depending upon lifestyle and risk factors, annual boosters can include leptospirosis, Bordetella, and canine influenza.

Every

3 year

Core boosters

DHPPi typically receives a core booster immediately after the primary series, then again every 3 years. Rabies revaccination intervals vary depending on local regulations and the vaccine used.

Dog Vaccine Safety and Possible Side Effects

Dog Vaccine Safety and Possible Side Effects

Dogs typically react well to vaccinations; the vast majority experience no or minimal side effects that subside within 2 days without medication.

Common mild effects may include:

  • Minor swelling or redness at the site where the vaccine was administered.
  • Low grade fever.
  • A temporary decrease in appetite and/or lethargy.

Severe reactions occur rarely. Serious side effects, including life-threatening anaphylactic reactions to vaccinations can happen, but are extremely rare. These reactions require prompt veterinary intervention. Some signs of anaphylaxis can include facial oedema, urticaria (hives), emesis (vomiting), diarrhoea, and dyspnea (difficulty breathing); therefore, these situations should be evaluated immediately by a veterinarian.

If you have a pregnant dog, or if your dog has one of many types of autoimmune disease, there could be added risks associated with vaccination; therefore please advise your veterinarian of all prior medical histories for your dog.

Modern Vet has partnered with Zoetis, a world-leading animal health company, enabling us to provide our clients with access to cutting edge, high quality vaccines that safely protect against infectious diseases.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Vaccinations are generally considered safe and should be given to older dogs. As dogs grow old, their bodies’ defences decrease, and they become at greater risk of developing illnesses. The veterinarian you see will evaluate your older dog’s health status and recommend which vaccinations are best suited for him/her based on his/her age and activity level.

Contact your veterinarian as soon as you realize that your puppy has missed one (or more) vaccinations. Your veterinarian will then update the vaccination schedule to ensure your puppy receives the necessary vaccinations to protect against serious, potentially deadly diseases.

While vaccines are very effective, no vaccine is completely effective. Therefore, although rare, some vaccinated dogs may contract a viral infection. However, because of the protection offered by the vaccine(s), most vaccinated dogs have less severe symptoms and/or are at lower risk of dying from those infections compared to unvaccinated dogs.

Typically, immunity develops 10 to 14 days after vaccine administration. A second dose of certain vaccines provides complete protection; therefore, it is crucial to follow the recommended vaccine series.

Indoor dogs may still contract illnesses even though they never go outside. These illnesses can come into contact with your dog through the shoes or clothing you wear when you leave the house, or from a walk around the block, a visit to the groomer, a trip to the vet, etc. Regardless of how often your dog goes outdoors, core vaccinations are required for every dog.

Meet the Team and Schedule your Appoinment

Modern Veterinary Clinic is the UAE’s only 24-hour multi-specialty vet hospital. What truly sets us apart is our team of highly qualified specialists, all dedicated to one goal, keeping your pets healthy. With a multinational team, years of experience, and many successful treatments, you can trust that your pet is in safe hands with us.

Dr. Rocio Mena
DVM
Dr. Moustafa Hafez
DVM
Dr. Roy Hassoun
DVM, MVSC, BVSc, DISAMS, DSAS

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