Many pet owners falsely assume their dog is permanently protected after receiving its initial immunizations. Sadly, this is not the case. All dogs, no matter how old, need annual booster vaccines to protect against potentially fatal diseases. Each vaccine requires a booster yearly or every three years as its protective effects gradually wear off over time.
What are booster shots for dogs?
When your dog is six months old, and then every year after that, you should give them a booster shot to ensure they remain protected from harmful diseases and illnesses after their initial series of vaccines has worn off.
Furthermore, if enough dog owners get their dogs vaccinated every year, the entire population can benefit from what is known as “herd immunity,” thanks to booster injections. Fewer dogs infected with a disease means a reduced chance of transmission to other dogs.
What are the benefits of dog booster shots?
Vaccinating dogs has, by all accounts, prevented the deaths of millions of animals worldwide. If you have a dog, getting your pet a booster shot is something you should think about doing. Researchers have found that canine vaccines protect against disease for longer than was previously thought by veterinarians and animal experts.
This indicates that there is no justification for not vaccinating your dog and that you should do so. But if you need more persuading, consider these advantages of dog immunization booster shots.
- Many contagious diseases that might affect pets can be avoided with regular vaccinations.
- Vaccinations can save money by preventing diseases instead of treating them.
- Vaccinations stop the spread of diseases from animals to humans and vice versa.
However, if you plan on vaccinating your puppy, you should check with the San Jose vet first to determine the necessary vaccines.
Are booster shots necessary for dogs?
While the recommended primary immunization schedule provides essential protection for puppies, it’s always a good idea to research whether or not any additional vaccines would benefit your dog. Do dogs need further vaccinations periodically? Vaccines for dogs can be renewed yearly, especially if they provide multi-year immunity (or for life).
Dogs usually do better with regular booster shots, and failing to vaccinate them might put them at risk for severe or fatal diseases. If you have questions regarding pet vaccination San Jose, it is best to consult a reputable veterinarian.
What shots do dogs need every year?
Except for the rabies vaccine, which is mandated by law in most areas, your dog does not need annual immunizations. Veterinarians generally agree on a set of recommended “core” vaccinations. Initiate your dog with these while they are a puppy (3 vaccines between 8-16 weeks of age). These vaccines are Canine parvovirus 2, canine adenovirus 2, and canine distemper (CAV).
While the rabies vaccine is essential, it should only be administered three times during your dog’s lifetime: first when they are between 12 and 16 weeks old, again after a year, and finally every three years. On the other hand, most pet owners neglect to have their pet’s oral health checked, so make an appointment with the vet dentist. Learn more about pet dentistry at bloomplazaanimalhospital.com
Bottomline
Even though protecting your pet from preventable diseases is reason enough for any caring pet owner to vaccinate their pet, there is another reason to do so: protecting the entire pet population. Animals would be in grave danger if owners stopped vaccinating their pets against infectious diseases.
