Immunizing your dog is one of the most crucial preventive measures you can take to ensure your pet is healthy throughout its life. The frequency of vaccination depends on many factors, such as their age, health history, geographic location, and the vet’s recommendation. But, usually, these 6 common shots are the ones that they should get annually, especially if you’re vacationing soon and staying at a hotel in St. Augustine, FL:
Core vaccines are considered vital to all puppies and adult dogs to protect them from contagious and severe illnesses. These shots prevent the spread of canine diseases that are fatal, extremely difficult to treat, and transmissible to people.
- Distemper – This is a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease among domestic dogs. Pets who contract this illness will experience severe neurological complications, pneumonia, fever, gastrointestinal issues, encephalitis, eye disease, or death. So, have your canine get this shot every 3 years.
- Parvovirus – Canine parvovirus is another highly infectious and deadly disease. Its symptoms include gastrointestinal issues, severe vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and dehydration. The virus attacks the dog’s cells and stops them from absorbing nutrients. To prevent this from happening, take your dog to the vet every year for this shot.
- Rabies – This fatal virus causes inflammation in the brain and nerves. The vaccine is administered based on state regulations. Mostly, it’s recommended to take your dog to the vet for this shot every 3 years, but a booster is needed after 12 months. Talk to your local animal shelter to learn more about your area’s laws.
Non-core immunization shots are optional vaccines that you can consider depending on your pet’s exposure and lifestyle. You can reach out to a vet and schedule a risk assessment for your dog.
- Leptospirosis – This is a contagious virus that affects the liver and kidney. If your pet is exposed to wildlife, specifically to ponds and other small bodies of water, they might need this shot.
- Lyme Disease – A dog may develop Lyme disease when bitten by a black-legged or deer tick. Its signs include fever, loss of appetite, swollen joints, and lethargy. If left untreated, this illness can damage the kidneys, central nervous system, and heart.
- Canine Cough Complex – This illness is commonly known as kennel cough and causes prolonged respiratory diseases. If your canine regularly goes to boarding facilities, dog shows, classes, and parks, you shouldprotect them against this illness. Take them to a small animal hospital where they can be given bordetella and parainfluenza vaccines yearly.
Keeping your pet up to date on vaccinations is an important facet of pet ownership, especially if you’re doing any vacationing and planning to stay at a pet-friendly St Augustine Hotel.