DOG VACCINATIONS
Vaccinations teach the immune system to recognise and
respond quickly to certain infections before they can cause serious
illness. They contain harmless strains of the viruses and bacteria that
your dog needs protection against. Most of the diseases that are
vaccinated against have no specific cure, and treatment can only
support the animal before its immune system can hopefully fight off the
disease. Recent advances in vaccine technology mean that they are safer
than ever and can protect against even more diseases.
When To Vaccinate?
Vaccines are usually first used in pups from six weeks of age.
Generally a double dose of vaccine is given 2-4 weeks apart and then
every year a single booster injection is given to keep their immunity
at fully protective levels. It is essential to ensure that your pup is
fully vaccinated before coming into contact with other dogs’ as they
may be carriers of the diseases.
Which Diseases Are Covered By Vaccination
?
Canine Parvovirus An aggressive disease that attacks the immune system
and cells lining the intestines, causing serious, often fatal, vomiting
and diarrhoea. Young unvaccinated pups are especially
susceptible.
Canine Distemper (Hardpad) This virus attacks the gut, lungs and
nervous system and is usually fatal.
Infectious Canine Hepatitis This virus rapidly attacks the liver,
lungs, kidneys and eyes. Many cases are fatal but some dogs can
recover.
Canine Parainfluenza Virus This virus is an important component of
`kennel cough’ , a highly infectious upper respiratory tract infection
of dogs which causes a dry hacking cough.
Leptospirosis This disease is caused by bacteria from the
family Leptospira. Two types of disease are seen but both can be
protected against. The first is passed on in watercourses from the
urine of infected rats and this strain can also affect humans. The
second is caught from the urine of infected dogs. Whilst antibiotics
can help to treat Leptospirosis, cases can often be fatal or cause
lifelong damage to the kidneys.
Newer vaccines can also give protection against canine
coronavirus, which can cause serious diarrhoea in infected
animals.
Kennel cough vaccines protect against a bacteria called bordetella
bronchiseptica which is one of the more serious strains of `kennel
cough` infection. Vaccination is often a requirement of boarding
kennels to reduce its spread.
Rabies vaccines are used only occasionally but can enable
pets to travel freely from the UK to Europe provided they comply with
the rules set down under the Pet Travel Scheme.
Why Does My Dog Need Annual Boosters?
Although some components of the routine vaccine do stimulate a
long-term immunity that can last for a few years, most components do
not and so an annual booster is essential to ensure full protection.
The specific interval between booster injections will vary depending on
which product is used and so it is essential to consult your veterinary
surgeon, who will know your own dogs` requirements.
How Are Vaccines Given?
Most dog vaccines are given by injection into the scruff of the neck.
The procedure goes unnoticed in most cases.
Kennel cough vaccines as previously mentioned are given as nasal
drops.
How Much Will It Cost ?
Prices will vary considerably and will depend on which specific
vaccines are used. An initial course of two injections may range from
£30-£70 and a booster from £18-£40.
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