Recommended Vaccines
A complete vaccination program includes a series of initial vaccines, followed by periodic “boosters”. Currently, the American Veterinary Medical Association recommends all dogs be vaccinated against distemper, canine adenovirus (type 2), canine parvovirus, and rabies. Your puppy’s vaccination program should include these four “core vaccines” and possibly one or more additional “non-core” vaccines.
- Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that is capable of surviving in environments for long periods of time. It can be transmitted through handling and contact with clothing and food pans. Signs include fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, and severe diarrhea. If prompt veterinary care is not provided, infection with parvovirus can be fatal.
- Canine distemper is caused by an airborne virus and is rapidly transmitted between dogs. Early signs are similar to those of a human cold: coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge and fever. However, these signs progress to the serious stage of disease and the dog develops diarrhea, vomiting and seizures, which are almost always fatal.
- Adenovirus-2 is one of several causes of respiratory disease or “kennel cough” in dogs. Signs of kennel cough include chronic coughing, nasal discharge and lethargy. A related virus, Adenovirus-1 is the infectious agent that causes canine hepatitis, a serious disease that affects the liver and other internal organs. Because these two viruses are closely related, vaccination with just one form of the virus (usually type 2) effectively protects dogs against both diseases.
- Rabies is a fatal disease that can be contracted by all warm-blooded species, including humans. The rabies virus attacks the central nervous system and is most commonly transmitted by a bite from an infected animal. Because rabies infection poses a serious public health hazard, most states require rabies vaccination for all dogs.
Non-core Vaccines
Non-core vaccines protect against diseases that are uncommon, of low health risk to the majority of dogs, or are present only in certain regions of the country. These vaccines are selectively recommended for dogs who may be at increased risk of exposure, such as those who travel to dog shows, live in certain climates, or are frequently boarded at kennels. Non-core vaccines include: leptospirosis, coronavirus, canine parainfluenza (causes kennel cough), Bordetella bronchiseptica (another cause of kennel cough) and Borrelia burgdorferi (the microorganism that causes Lyme disease). Consult your veterinarian to determine which non-core vaccines may be necessary in your region or for your dog’s lifestyle.
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