The Importance of Timely Vaccinations: Creating a Schedule for Your Dog's Health

Any parent would want the best for their child. The same goes for fur parents. Pet parents would want only the best care for their pets. That’s why a dog vaccination schedule should be prioritized the most to keep your pets protected and healthy. Dog ownership includes the responsibility of tracking all the vaccines your pet has received, the date when it was given, and the next schedule for administration. 

Vaccinations are one way of keeping dogs protected against deadly and contagious diseases. But be aware that the vaccines do not protect them instantly. It takes some time for the body to be immune from diseases thanks to these vaccines. In addition, although this disease has been tested already, there could be instances where your pet could still be susceptible to illness due to several other reasons. Learn the ways how to keep your dog’s health in check by managing and keeping track of their vaccination schedule.

The importance of timely vaccinations for dogs

As the famous adage goes, ‘Prevention is better than cure.’ This is true for your canine’s health as well. Making sure that your dog receives the right vaccines to give them that protection against deadly pathogens in their body. These vaccines are integral in halting any development of harmful diseases or other long-term health issues. Below are some of the importance of vaccination. 

• Vaccinations protect against certain diseases, as well as, manage the dog's overall well-being. 

• It reduces the chances of having a widespread disease affecting canines within a community. Imagine living in a state where most dogs are vaccinated. If one dog gets sick, the rest of the dogs in the area which are vaccinated won’t be easily infected. 

• It saves you from expensive dog treatments in the future. Getting your dog vaccinated early on, prevents you from rushing your pets into the emergency rooms for some treatments. 

• It shows you abide by the law. Most areas have their local ordinances or state laws requiring dogs to be vaccinated. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) stated that pet owners in the United States should make sure that their pet’s vaccination is updated especially for rabies.  

• Protects parents from getting infected. Some diseases are not only passed from one animal to another but from an animal to a human. Making sure that your pets are vaccinated prevents the spread of infection. This is especially true if you have a child at home or living with someone with immunocompromised disease. 

• Assured acceptance in pet boarding facilities. If you will be leaving your pet in a pet boarding facility, you would need to provide a certificate of vaccination. This ensures that other animals in the facility are safe and the infection of any pet-related illnesses can be prevented. 

Understanding the vaccination schedule for puppies

Although puppies have certain immunity thanks to their mothers, over time this immunity fades away. Thus, it is crucial to keep them protected by following their dog vaccination schedule. Take note of the vaccination schedules below. 

The first dose of vaccination will start when your puppy is 6 weeks old. This could be the first puppy visit for your pet under your care. This will continue until it reaches 16 months. There are vaccines that you also have to get every 1 to 2 years to fight off diseases such as DHPP and anti-rabies every 1 to 3 years. 

Factors to consider when creating a vaccination schedule for your dog

Before going to the vet to get shots for your dog, it is important to properly plan out your dog's vaccination schedule. Consider the following factors:

• Dog’s age 

• Lifestyle 

• Geographical location 

• Proximity to the nearest veterinarian and veterinary hospital

Unlike adult dogs, puppies need these vaccines to keep their health protected while growing up. Mature dogs will also need regular boosters to keep them protected. You might also need to consult with your vet if you are planning to bring your dog along for some travel. A booster shot could be administered. 

Working with your veterinarian to develop a personalized vaccination plan

Although there are certain timelines for where the vaccines should be taken, it is still important to consult a vet to have a personalized dog vaccination schedule. Each dog has certain needs which need special attention. A veterinarian can provide professional advice on the best course of action in consideration of the best healthcare plan for your pet.  

As a responsible pet owner, you also have to make sure that your pet does not only get the vaccines it needs but also regular checkups. These visits to the veterinary are important to keep their health in check. It is also one way of making sure that any diseases are detected early on. 

Common misconceptions about dog vaccinations

If you are looking after an animal or a dog to be specific, you should be aware of what’s true and what are just misconceptions. This is one way of making sure that your pet gets the premium care it deserves. Read the common misconception below. 

• Vaccines work instantly. This is not true. The same goes for humans, it takes a while for the body to develop certain immunity after the vaccine has been administered. 

• Vaccines are not needed since the canine stays at home. Your pet still needs to be vaccinated because you might be bringing germs and diseases into your home although your pet seldom gets out. 

• Vaccines may cause potential side effects. While there might have been isolated cases for this instance, vaccines have undergone years of study and testing. Your pets might experience some common side effects such as soreness, decrease in appetite, coughing, sneezing, or mild fever.

Make sure to take informed decisions by educating yourself about vaccines and getting your information from trusted sources such as the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The consequences of not following a vaccination schedule

Below are just some of the things that could happen if pet owners fail to get the proper vaccines for their pets. 

• The chances of your pets contracting infectious diseases are high. They are also more prone to getting sick and might have long-term illnesses

• The prevalence of illness in the area could spread rapidly. 

• Unvaccinated dogs could be sick and eventually die early. 

• Pet owners could be at risk of breaking the law, facing legal action, and paying hefty fines

Keeping track of your dog's vaccination records

Once you get a dog, you have accepted the responsibility of looking after it no matter what happens. The immense joy that these pets give you also comes with responsibilities. As a fur parent, you have to make sure that your puppy is on track when it comes to its vaccines. You can consider the guide below on how you can track your dog's vaccination schedule. 

• Be informed when these vaccines should be administered. Read about dog vaccination from credible sources. 

• Keep their medical record book in a safe place. Away from the places where it might be eaten by mites. 

• You can also save a backup of their medical record on your digital phone and laptop. This is a convenient way to keep your record. Should you need to show your pet’s vaccination record at the airport or the boarding facility, you won’t have any hassles. 

• Schedule a calendar reminder as to when the next vaccines should be taken. Make sure that you will receive a notification so you won’t be forgetting to bring your pet to the vet. 

Ensuring the health and well-being of your furry friend

Do not think that getting vaccines for your dog is just another additional expense. You are saving yourself from spending a lot on future treatments. Getting your pet protected early on is a wise investment. You are not only protecting them but also the community where they live and the people they are with. Now that you have an understanding of how vaccines work and the difference between core and non-core, you can make more informed decisions. Remember to trust only credible veterinarians to look after your pet’s health. Work together with them to ensure that your pet will live a long, healthy, and happy life with the help of these vaccines.