This week Danielle asked: Which vaccines are my dogs supposed to be on?
Hey Danielle! Giz here. I see you're unsure of what exactly and maybe when exactly dog vaccines, (even dewormers, flea meds, spay/neuter and microchipping) should be taken care of. Not to worry. I've got some answers from our friends at Beverly Oaks Animal Hospital! Please always consult with your dog's veterinarian first.
If your dog is younger than 4 months we recommend the following vaccine/treatment protocol:
DAPP vaccine, given every 3-4 weeks, starting as early as 6 weeks until your dog is about 16 weeks (expect at least 3-4 vaccines), then1 year later, then every 3 years. This is one of the most important vaccines for dogs as it covers most of the common infectious diseases, some than can be fatal, such as parvovirus.
Rabies vaccine is good for 1 year and then every 3 years, if given near the due date (but not past it. You'll need to show proof at vet visits!) Rabies is a viral disease that is contagious to humans, though rare in California, it is required by law. Your dog must be at least 12 weeks old for this vaccine.
Bordetella vaccine, given once if your dog will be around other dogs, will be groomed, go to the dog parks, etc. This is the most common bacterial cause of kennel cough (a doggy cold). Can be given any time during the booster series but recommended before exposure to other dogs, then once yearly.
Influenza bivalent vaccine, given once, at any time in your dog’s life, then a booster after 2-4 weeks and then once yearly. This is a viral disease that also causes doggy cold. It is NOT contagious to people. It is recommended if your dog will be exposed to other dogs, such as in dog parks, doggy day care and boarding facilities.
A dewormer (such as Pyrantel) is recommended at every vaccine appointment until your puppy has completed his vaccines.
Flea Treatment is recommended all year round.
Spay (for female dogs) and Neuter (for male dogs) is recommended once your pet has finished the vaccines. Ideally a female should be spayed before her first heat cycle to dramatically reduce her chance of breast tumors. Most dogs will have their first heat cycle by 8-12 months.
Microchipping is HIGHLY recommended for all pets. This can be done at any time, but the easiest is at the time of the spay/neuter, while they are under anesthesia.
Remember to feed your pet an age appropriate dog food, exercise daily, keep at a lean body weight and get a yearly check-up to help monitor for any changes.
If your dog is older than 4 months we recommend the following vaccine/treatment protocol:
Follow the same as above, but only give the DAPP twice, 3-4 weeks apart.
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Psst: Although Gizmo is very smart, and has many areas of first-hand expertise, it is best to get the final word on medical or legal related issues from your favorite vet or lawyer.
Looking forward to the next Q! Ciao!