Dog vaccines are very important. They ensure the health and longevity of your canine’s life. Vaccines are effective and the safest way to protect your dog from infections and diseases. If you have recently become a dog owner and do not know which shots your pet may need, we can help. At Little Animal Hospital in Longview, TX, our veterinary team can tell you which vaccines your dog needs and administer them.

Necessary Vaccines for Dogs
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) classifies dog vaccines as core vaccines and noncore vaccines. Core vaccines are mandatory and are administered to every dog. Noncore vaccines are not required, but may be recommended depending on your dog’s lifestyle and environment.

Core Vaccines
Rabies: Unfortunately, there is no treatment for rabies, meaning that it is fatal to all dogs. For this reason, the only way to protect your puppy is to get the proper vaccine.

  • Distemper: Distemper disease can cause a number of health issues, including brain damage or even death. Puppies are required to get three doses of this vaccine between 6 and 16 weeks of age.
  • Parvovirus: Parvo disease is highly contagious and can cause symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. There are three doses of parvo vaccine that puppies should receive between 6 and 16 weeks of age.
  • Adenovirus, type 1: This is also known as canine hepatitis that is spread in feces and urine. If a dog gets infected with Adenovirus, it can cause serious liver damage and lead to death. There are also three doses of this vaccine.
  • Adenovirus, type 2: This is an airborne virus that is also called kennel cough. It is spread through a sick canine’s sneezes and coughs.

Noncore Vaccines
Some noncore vaccines for dogs include Bordetella, Lyme disease, and canine influenza vaccines. Our veterinarians will let you know if your dog needs these shots.

Schedule Your Pet’s Appointment
It is very important to keep up with your dog’s vaccines, especially if it is a puppy. At Little Animal Hospital in Longview, TX, our expert veterinarians can create a vaccination schedule for your pet. We also provide other veterinary services, including dentistry, boarding, in-house diagnostics, microchip identification, pharmacy, and more. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call us today.