Your puppy's vaccination is one of the most important tasks you need to complete in the first few weeks. Puppies need to receive regular vaccinations to grow into healthy dogs and not catch deadly diseases from other animals. There are certain things you can do to ensure this happens.
If you are adopting or purchasing a puppy, get a copy of their medical and immunization records. You will need to take your dog to the veterinarian many times throughout their life, so it is important to know their medical and immunization history.
What Is the Right Age for Pet Vaccination?
You need to have the first puppy vaccination between the ages of eight and ten weeks (although it can take place as early as four to six weeks depending on size), followed by the second vaccination two to four weeks later. You should consult your veterinarian about the best timing.
At the age of six or twelve months, your puppy will need a booster vaccination. You must visit the vet regularly as your pup grows into an adult dog and keep your dog's vaccination records in check.
What Factors Affect Pet Vaccinations?
A veterinarian will check your pet’s exposure to a specific disease. Next, they need to determine if the pet has to be vaccinated based on the following factors:
Age: Vaccinations are crucial to help puppies and kittens build immunity to disease, as the immunity passed from their mothers gradually wears off. Adult pets need booster vaccines following the initial vaccine series to remain immune
Climate: Certain areas are more at risk for exposure to some diseases; for example, wooded areas like the Northeast are more likely to develop Lyme disease
Lifestyle: Indoor cats with no contact with other cats are less likely to contract diseases and may not need much vaccination. But if your cat spends time outside, goes to a boarding facility, or contacts an outside cat, then they face a higher risk for exposure and need to be vaccinated
How Do Pet Vaccinations Work?
Vaccines contain viruses or bacteria that have been modified to prevent the spread of disease. They stimulate your pet’s immune system, helping them respond quickly if they later encounter that disease-causing virus or bacteria.
How Effective and Safe Are Vaccinations?
While vaccinations can't guarantee complete protection, they are the easiest, safest, and most effective method of preventing various diseases in pets.
Only healthy animals should receive vaccines. Vaccines may not be effective in animals that already have a disease or are taking some medications. To prevent this, your veterinarian will carefully examine your pet and ask about their medical history before vaccinating them.
Following your veterinarian's vaccination schedule is crucial. If your pet misses a vaccine booster or is more than a few days late, they may contract the disease.
If it's time to get your dog vaccinated, contact Madison Animal Care Hospital in Huntsville or Madison, Alabama. To schedule an appointment for your pet, call us at (256) 461-7575 or (256) 715-8389.
