Vaccinations and Your Doxie
Vaccinations are a critical component of preventive care for your dog. Thanks to the development of vaccines, dogs have been protected from numerous disease threats, including rabies, distemper, hepatitis, and several others. Some of these diseases can be passed from dogs to people—so canine vaccinations have protected human health as well.
Core vaccines are generally recommended for all dogs and protect against diseases that are more serious or potentially fatal. These diseases are found in all areas of North America and are more easily transmitted than noncore diseases.
The AAHA guidelines define the following as core vaccines:
- Distemper
- Adenovirus
- Leptospirosis
- Parvovirus
- Parainfluenza
- Rabies
Distemper, adenovirus, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus vaccinations are commonly referred to as the distemper combo.
Noncore vaccines are those reserved for patients at a specific risk of infection due to exposure or lifestyle. The AAHA guidelines classify the following as noncore:
- Kennel Cough
- Lyme Disease
- Canine Influenza
DRBC does provide the kennel cough vaccination as part of its vaccination regimen and believes that all dogs who visit pet stores, dog parks, and those exposed to public situations receive this vaccine. Additionally, the canine influenza vaccination was given to all DRBC dogs in 2010-2014.
The American Veterinary Medical Association revised the vaccination schedule in accordance with the table shown below. Vaccinations are needed in reducing health risks to your pet. Discuss this new protocol with your veterinarian at your annual visit.
NOTE: This section of the DRBC website is offered as a medical reference only. DRBC is not operated by veterinarians. Seek the attention of your veterinarian to obtain a complete understanding for any of the topics listed.
