Dog Vaccines

Preventable Diseases in Dogs and How Vaccines Help

Vaccines protect your dog from severe, often life-threatening illnesses that can spread quickly. Here are the key diseases dog vaccines help prevent:

Parvovirus ("Parvo"): A highly contagious virus that attacks the gastrointestinal system and is especially dangerous for puppies. Signs include severe vomiting, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, and dehydration. Without treatment, it can be fatal.

Distemper: A viral disease affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Early signs include fever, coughing, runny eyes and nose, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can progress to seizures, paralysis, and death.

Rabies: A fatal viral disease that attacks the nervous system and can spread to humans. Signs include behavioral changes, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, and seizures. Rabies is 100% preventable with vaccination, but incurable once symptoms appear.

Canine Hepatitis (Adenovirus): This virus infects the liver, causing fever, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Severe cases lead to liver failure.

Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection spread through contaminated water or soil. It can also affect humans. Signs include fever, vomiting, lethargy, muscle pain, and potential kidney or liver damage.

Getting puppies vaccinated early is critical since their immune systems are still maturing. A vaccination plan that considers your dog's age, health, and lifestyle provides reliable protection from puppyhood through their senior years.

Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines

Core vaccines are recommended for every dog, regardless of lifestyle. They protect against highly contagious or life-threatening illnesses like rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and canine hepatitis. Many are conveniently combined into a single shot (DA2PP).

Non-core vaccines are added based on your dog's routine and risk factors, such as frequent visits to dog parks, boarding, grooming, or travel. Common options include Bordetella (kennel cough), Leptospirosis, Canine Influenza, and Lyme disease.

Puppies usually begin their vaccine series around 6 to 8 weeks of age, with boosters every few weeks until fully protected. Adult dogs then follow a maintenance schedule, typically with boosters every 1 to 3 years.

What vaccines does my puppy need?

Puppies need core vaccines, including DA2PP (distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, parvovirus) and rabies. Depending on lifestyle and location, Bordetella, Leptospirosis, and Canine Influenza may also be recommended. The series starts at 6 to 8 weeks and continues every 3 to 4 weeks until around 16 weeks.

How much do dog vaccines cost?

Costs vary depending on which vaccines your dog needs. Check our pricing page or contact your local Petfolk for specific costs.

Are dog vaccines safe?

Yes. Vaccines have been used successfully for decades. Mild side effects, such as temporary soreness or low energy, may occur, but serious reactions are rare.

How often does my dog need vaccines?

Puppies need vaccines every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks old. Adult dogs typically need core boosters every 1 to 3 years. Some lifestyle vaccines, like Bordetella, may be given annually or semi-annually.

Can my dog get vaccines if they're sick?

We recommend waiting until your dog is feeling better. Vaccines are most effective when given to healthy dogs whose immune systems can respond properly.

What if my dog is overdue for vaccines?

We can get your dog back on track. Depending on how overdue they are, we may recommend restarting certain series or simply giving a booster.

Do indoor dogs need vaccines?

Yes. Rabies is required by law regardless of lifestyle. Diseases like parvovirus can also be tracked indoors on shoes and clothing.

Can I board my dog without vaccines?

Most boarding facilities require proof of current vaccinations, typically including rabies, DA2PP, and Bordetella. Some also require Canine Influenza.

What are the side effects of dog vaccines?

Most dogs have no side effects or only mild symptoms, such as slight soreness, a mild fever, or decreased appetite, for a day or two. Serious reactions, such as facial swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing, are rare. Contact us immediately if you notice these.

Does my senior dog still need vaccines?

Yes. We may adjust the schedule based on their health and lifestyle, but maintaining immunity is important since older dogs can be more susceptible to certain diseases.