Which Vaccines Does My Dog Really Need and Why?
If you live in the Costa Mesa, CA area and have been searching for "dog vaccines near me," you will find that and more at All Creatures Care Cottage.
Keeping your pet healthy and disease-free through preventive care is the foundation of our veterinary practice. We offer both the core vaccines recommended for every dog and other vaccines that may be important for your dog's health depending on certain lifestyle factors. We are always happy to talk through any questions or concerns you have about your dog's recommended vaccine schedule.
Core Vaccines
The "core vaccines" are the vaccines that are considered essential for reducing the risk of diseases that are very contagious or potentially fatal for your dog, and include:
- Rabies: Rabies is a deadly virus that can be transmitted to any mammal, and vaccinating your dog against it is required by law. The first rabies vaccine should be given to your puppy at around three to four months of age, followed by a booster one year later. Depending on the rabies vaccine administered, your dog will then need a booster every one or three years thereafter.
- DHLPP: This vaccine protects against several serious diseases in just one shot: distemper, two types of adenovirus (hepatitis), parainfluenza, Leptospirosis, and parvovirus. All of these illnesses are highly contagious, and most are very serious, frequently resulting in long-term damage or death. After being administered a DHLPP vaccination series as a puppy, followed by yearly boosters.
Non-Core Vaccines
Depending on certain factors, such as whether your dog visits boarding or dog daycare facilities, other vaccinations may also be recommended, such as:
- Bordetella (kennel cough)
- Lyme disease
- Leptospirosis
- Canine influenza
Dr. Spongberg will talk with you about your lifestyle and whether any non-core vaccines would benefit your dog's health.
Schedule Your Dog's Vaccinations Today!
While the above diseases can all cause pain and heartache, the good news is that vaccination is a highly effective means of protection for your dog. To schedule your dog's vaccinations, call All Creatures Care Cottage today at (949) 642-7151.