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Vaccination
Vaccination is essential for protecting our dogs from infectious diseases. We recommend starting a course of two injections for puppies between 6 and 10 weeks of age, with the second injection given from 10 weeks of age, 2-4 weeks after the first. Annual booster vaccinations are crucial to maintain immunity as your dog grows.
When Should We Vaccinate Our Pup?
- Initial Vaccination: Puppies should begin vaccinations between 6 and 10 weeks of age.
- Second Injection: Administered from 10 weeks of age, 2-4 weeks after the first injection.
- Older Dogs: Can be vaccinated at any age with two injections 2-4 weeks apart.
- Annual Boosters: Essential for maintaining immunity throughout adulthood.
Important Note: Unvaccinated puppies should be kept away from areas visited by other dogs to prevent exposure to diseases.
What Diseases Do We Vaccinate Our Dogs For?
- Parvovirus: Causes often fatal gastroenteritis. The virus is widespread and can live in the environment for several years. Treatment is expensive and not always successful.
- Distemper: Causes respiratory and nervous system diseases, leading to severe vomiting, diarrhoea, pneumonia, seizures, and death.
- Infectious Canine Hepatitis: Causes liver inflammation and potential liver failure. It is uncommon but potentially fatal.
- Leptospirosis: Contracted from the environment, especially near water and areas with rat urine. Causes acute kidney and liver failure and can be transmitted to humans.
- Certain Respiratory Diseases: Includes various infections causing respiratory issues ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe lung disease.
- Coronavirus: Causes infectious diarrhoea, especially serious in puppies.
- Kennel Cough: Intra-nasal vaccination protects against Bordetella bronchiseptica. Recommended at least a week before entering kennels.
- Rabies: Required for international travel. See EU Pet Passport for more information.
Should We Vaccinate Our Pets At All?
Yes, vaccination prevents serious and potentially fatal diseases. Unlike minor human illnesses like mumps, diseases such as parvovirus can be deadly for unvaccinated dogs.
Are These Diseases Still a Threat?
Yes, while vaccination has reduced the frequency of these diseases, none have been eradicated.
Are Annual Boosters Really Necessary?
Yes, annual boosters are necessary to maintain immunity.
Can My Pet Be Vaccinated If He/She Is Unwell?
Only healthy animals should be vaccinated. Our vet will thoroughly examine your pet prior to vaccination to ensure they are fit for the procedure.
Do I Need a Certificate of Vaccination?
Yes, after completing your pet’s primary vaccination course, you will receive a certificate. This record is required by boarding kennels, catteries, and training classes. Bring this certificate to the clinic for updates during each vaccination.
Do Vaccinations Cause More Illness Than They Prevent?
Serious adverse reactions to vaccinations are exceptionally rare. Pet vaccines undergo thorough testing for safety and efficacy, and vaccination provides significant health benefits by protecting your pet from serious illnesses.