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Should I get my dog vaccinated? Why & When To Do It

Annual appointments for your dog's vaccinations and boosters may seem inconvenient, but our Huntersville vets believe that following the dog vaccination schedule below is the best way to protect your pup from catching a number of serious and potentially deadly diseases.


Why Get Your Dog Vaccinated

Like vaccines for people, dog vaccines protect your pet against a host of serious diseases that could threaten the life of your pet.

While getting your dog vaccinated may seem like an unnecessary expense at the time, your dog's shots are likely to save you much more money when compared to the cost of treatment for the illnesses vaccines protect against.

Which Vaccines Are Right For Your Dog

In the Huntersville area, the vaccinations recommended for dogs include immunizations to help prevent bordetella, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and rabies.

At LakeCross Veterinary Hospital our vets will be able to recommend the vaccines which are most appropriate for your dog based on your dog's age, where you live, and your dog's lifestyle.

Vaccination Schedule for Puppies & Adult Dogs

Puppy Shot Schedule

6 - 8 Weeks

  • *DHPP Shot 1
  • Bordatella
  • Leptospira
  • Lyme
  • Influenza Virus-H3N8
  • Influenza Virus-H3N2

10 - 12 Weeks

  • Influenza Virus-H3N8
  • Influenza Virus-H3N2
  • DHPP Shot 2
  • Leptospira
  • Lyme
  • Rabies

14 - 16 Weeks

  • DHPP Shot 3

Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule

Annually

  • Bordatella
  • Leptospira
  • Lyme
  • Rabies
  • Influenza Virus-H3N8
  • Influenza Virus-H3N2

Every 3 Years

  • DHPP Booster
  • Rabies

*DHPP: this vaccine protects against Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.

Age Restrictions

Speak to your vet to learn which vaccines are appropriate for your dog. Very young puppies and senior dogs with compromised immune systems are not eligible for all shots.

Possible Vaccine Side Effects

In some cases, dogs may have an allergic reaction to getting their shots. This is typically due to 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.

Is it time for your dog's vaccines? Contact us today to book an appointment for your pooch.

Relaxed looking small brown dog having vaccination at the vet's office. Huntersville Vet.

Looking for a vet in Huntersville and Mecklenburg County?

We're always accepting new patients, so contact our veterinary hospital today to book your pet's first appointment.

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