Vaccinations are an essential part of your dog’s overall health care. They help protect your furry friend from a variety of infectious diseases, some of which can be deadly. At Coral Gables Animal Hospital in Coral Gables, FL, we provide vaccinations to protect your pet and keep the community safe from disease transmission.
Core and Non-Core Vaccines
There are two categories of vaccines: core and non-core. Core vaccines are those that every dog should receive, as they protect against severe, highly contagious diseases. The ones for dogs include rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus. They are typically required by law in many areas, especially the rabies vaccine, which helps prevent the spread of the disease to humans.
Non-core vaccines are given based on your dog’s lifestyle and the risks he or she may face. These may include vaccines for diseases such as Lyme disease, leptospirosis, kennel cough, and canine influenza. Our veterinarians can assess your canine’s risk factors and recommend any immunizations that are appropriate for its needs.
How Vaccinations Work
Vaccines work by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that fight specific diseases. This means that if your dog is exposed to a disease in the future, its body will recognize it and be able to fight it off more effectively. Vaccinations help prevent outbreaks and are crucial in keeping your pet healthy throughout its life.
When to Vaccinate Your Dog
Puppies usually start their vaccination schedule at around 6-8 weeks of age. They will require multiple rounds of vaccines to ensure proper immunity, with boosters typically given at 12 weeks, 16 weeks, and beyond. Adult dogs also require regular boosters to maintain their immunity. Our vets will help create an immunization schedule that’s right for your dog’s age, health status, and lifestyle.
Contact Coral Gables Animal Hospital for an Appointment Today
To learn more about pet vaccinations or to schedule a dog exam, contact Coral Gables Animal Hospital in Coral Gables, FL, at (305) 667-5821 today. We are happy to provide you with additional information and assist you with booking your appointment. Our team looks forward to improving your dog’s well-being!