Should I Get My Dog Vaccinated?: Why & When to Do It

Vaccinating Your Dog

Just like with the vaccines made for people. your dog's shots protect your canine companion against several serious diseases that can easily be life-threatening for your pet. 

Generally, vaccines expose your dog's immune system to a specific type of infection, which then activates your pet's white blood cells to initiate production of antibodies generated by the immune system. These antibodies then attach to the infection and destroy it. They also target infected cells to eliminate any trace of the pathogen. Your dog's body then remembers the type of infection and fights it the moment it invades their system. 

While you may wonder if getting your dog vaccinated is necessary, these vaccines will likely cost far less than treatment for illnesses the vaccines combat.

Why should I vaccinate my dog?

By proactively having your dog vaccinated and keeping up to date on their booster shots, you can protect your pooch from contracting deadly, dangerous diseases. 

Many vaccines, such as the rabies vaccines for both dogs and cats, are mandated across the United States. In many areas, residents need to have current vaccination records for each pet to obtain a pet license. 

If you book a room in a pet-friendly hotel, have your dog groomed, travel with your pup, or attend dog parks, vaccinations may be required. They can prevent your four-legged friend from contracting contagious diseases from other animals and stop the spread of infection. This is also true with pet sitting services, doggy daycares, and other businesses. 

What can happen if I decide not to vaccinate my dog?

If you decide to skip getting your pup vaccinated, your dog will be more vulnerable to highly contagious, often fatal diseases such as rabies, Bordetella, hepatitis, distemper, and parvovirus. Even if your dog spends their time indoors, parasites and infections can make their way into your home and find their way into your dog's body. 

When dogs aren't protected with vaccines, they are at risk of contracting these diseases. Since your dog won't have the antibodies to fight off infections, your pup can become very ill and even die due to the health complications these diseases cause. Depending on the illness or disease, they may also transmit it to other people or animals living in your household or neighborhood. 

Because most dog-friendly spaces (pet-friendly hotels, dog parks, boarding facilities, vet's offices, shelters, pet groomers), require dogs to be up to date on their vaccines, you may be refused entry or turned away from these places and businesses if you cannot produce proof of current vaccinations. 

Which vaccines does my puppy or adult dog need?

Vaccinations are available for dogs to help prevent Bordetella, distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, leptospirosis, and rabies. 

Your veterinarian will recommend vaccines based on your dog's age, location, and lifestyle. 

Puppy & Adult Dog Vaccine & Booster Shot Schedule 

Potential Side Effects of Dog Vaccines & Booster Shots

While vaccines are generally pretty safe, some dogs have experienced an allergic reaction. The reason for this is usually a sensitivity to an individual ingredient of a specific vaccine. Sometimes, this can be based on the genetics of a specific breed.

Individual vaccinations have been known to cause reactions in German shepherds, various collies, and some sheepdogs. It is important to note that your veterinarian will avoid any vaccines that contain ingredients to which your dog may be allergic.

Vaccines to Help Your Dog Live a Long & Happy Life

Vaccinations are a key component of your dog's preventive health care. Bring your dog in for routine vaccines help to protect them against various diseases and illnesses that can impact their quality of life. This helps provide them with the best chance at living a long, healthy and happy life. 

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.