We understand that it can seem time-consuming to take your dog to the vet's for vaccinations and boosters. However, our Mamaroneck vets explain how following this vaccination schedule is the best way to protect your dog from a host of serious, potentially life-threatening diseases.
Should you get your dog vaccinated?
Like vaccinations for humans, dog vaccines protect your pet against many serious diseases that may turn life-threatening for your pet.
Having your dog vaccinated might seem like an unnecessary expense if money is tight — after all, you watch him closely so what's the problem? However, your dog's shots will likely cost far less than treating the illnesses that may affect your pet if they aren't protected.
Does my dog need every available vaccine?
Immunizations to help prevent rabies, hepatitis, parvovirus, bordetella and distemper are recommended for dogs in the Mamaroneck area. Your vet can tell you which vaccines are most appropriate for your dog based on your geographic location, pet's lifestyle and age.
Vaccination Schedule for Puppies & Adult Dogs
Puppy Vaccination Schedule
- 6 to 8 weeks
- DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- 10 to 12 Weeks
- Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Bordetella (Optional)
- Leptospirosis (Optional)
- 14 to 16 Weeks
- Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
- Booster: Bordetella (Optional)
- Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
- Spay (female)
- Neuter (male)
- 12 to 16 Months
- Final Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
- Final Booster: Bordetella (Optional)
- Final Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
*DHPP: This vaccine protects against Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.
Age Restrictions
Speak to your vet to find out more about which vaccines your dog will need. Very young puppies and senior dogs that have compromised immune systems will not be eligible for all shots.
Are there any potential side effects to dog vaccinations?
After getting their shots, some dogs may have an allergic reaction. This is typically caused by a sensitivity to an individual ingredient of a specific vaccine. Different breeds tend to react to some ingredients.
German shepherds, various collies, and some sheepdogs are known to be sensitive to individual vaccinations. Your vet will skip any vaccines that contain ingredients that your dog may be sensitive to.
The Importance of Vaccinations
Vaccinations are a key element of your dog's preventive health care. By taking your dog in for his/her shots early in life, then regularly as they move through adulthood, you give your furry friend the very best chance of living a long and healthy 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.