Dog Vaccinations and Deworming

Pet vaccinations have been recognized as one of the simplest ways to help ensure your dog lives a long and healthy life. Not only are there different vaccines for various diseases, but there are also various types and combinations of vaccines tailored for dogs. It's essential to consider your pet's lifestyle and health condition when choosing vaccines, as the vaccines needed can differ based on your dog's lifestyle.

1. Core Vaccines for Dogs

Core vaccines are essential for all dogs in the US unless there is a specific medical reason to avoid them. These vaccines protect against diseases or viruses that can be fatal to pets and even to human life, such as rabies: each state in the U.S. sets its own specific regulations for the rabies vaccine, and proof of rabies vaccination is mandatory in nearly all states. Some regions require annual rabies vaccinations, while others mandate a vaccination every three years.

Core vaccines for dogs include the following:

1. Rabies Vaccine：

Rabies is a fatal virus disease affecting mammals including both dogs and humans, and is typically transmitted through dog bites and scratches. Vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of contracting rabies. The incubation period for rabies is usually 2 to 3 months, but can range from a week to a year, depending on several factors: the location of the infection (the closer the bite is to the brain and spinal cord, the faster the virus reaches the nervous tissue), the severity of the bite, and the amount of virus that is injected at the bite site.

The initial symptoms of rabies include fever, pain at the wound site, and unusual sensations such as tingling, pricking, or burning (paresthesia). As the disease progresses, symptoms may include aggressive behavior, uncontrollable excitement, hydrophobia (fear of water), partial paralysis, disorientation, or loss of consciousness.

2. Canine Distemper Vaccine：

Canine distemper is a highly contagious disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of puppies and adult dogs. Vaccination can be used to protect against the virus. The virus is typically airborne, spread through sneezing or coughing, and healthy dogs can become infected by coming into contact with infected dogs or wildlife. The virus can also be transmitted through shared use of food and water bowls, equipment, and even from mother dogs to their pups via the placenta.

3. Canine Hepatitis Vaccine：

Dogs can suffer from two common types of hepatitis: Infectious Canine Hepatitis (often referred to as "Adenovirus") and Canine Chronic Hepatitis. Vaccination can enhance resistance to the hepatitis virus.

Infectious Canine Hepatitis：This type of hepatitis primarily affects puppies under one year old. Adult dogs rarely show symptoms and often have subclinical infections. It is an acute contagious disease.

Canine Chronic Hepatitis：This condition usually develops after the dog’s liver has experienced inflammation and necrosis. Certain dog breeds are more prone to this type of hepatitis, including Chihuahuas, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, and Labradors.

Dogs can catch canine hepatitis by eating the poop, drool, snot, or pee from other dogs that are infected. To completely clear the virus from their system, they typically need at least six months of normal urination.

4. Canine Parainfluenza Virus：

Canine Parainfluenza Virus is a highly contagious viral lung infection and is one of the most common causes of kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis), which is an acute or chronic inflammation of the respiratory tract. Vaccinating against this virus can reduce the chances of transmission of canine parainfluenza. Typical symptoms include fever, coughing, and nasal discharge. The canine parainfluenza virus can also lead to acute encephalomyelitis and hydrocephalus, with clinical manifestations such as hind limb paralysis and ataxia (lack of muscle coordination).

5. Canine Parvovirus, or CPV：

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that typically causes acute gastrointestinal illness in puppies. Parvovirus vaccination can significantly reduce the infection rate of this virus.

The virus is usually transmitted through direct contact between non-immunized healthy dogs and infected dogs, or when a non-immunized healthy dog consumes contaminated water or food.

This disease most commonly affects puppies aged 6 to 20 weeks, but older dogs can sometimes be affected as well. The disease can lead to myocarditis in puppies or neonatal dogs.

Combination Vaccine

In the US, core vaccines for dogs, excluding rabies, are typically given to dogs as combination vaccines. This method allows dogs to be protected against four different viruses/diseases with just a single injection. Common combination vaccines for dogs include:

DHPP：includes Distemper, Adenovirus Type 1, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.

DA2PP：includes Distemper, Adenovirus Type 2, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.

The difference between DHPP and DA2PP is the type of Adenovirus they protect against. Canine Adenovirus Type 1 (CAV-1) causes infectious canine hepatitis, while Canine Adenovirus Type 2 (CAV-2) leads to respiratory disease. Vaccination against Adenovirus Type 2 offers protection from the disease caused by Adenovirus Type 1. It's important to note that different veterinary clinics may offer different combination vaccines. In some areas, this combination vaccine is referred to as DHLPP, which also includes protection against Leptospirosis.

If you want to provide extra protection for your pets, learn more about Tigerless Pet Insurance, and don't forget to add Preventive Care!

2. Common Noncore Vaccines for Dogs

Noncore vaccines are not mandatory but should be considered depending on your dog's risk of exposure and lifestyle. There are a variety of noncore vaccine options available, and dog owners should carefully consider which vaccines are appropriate for their dogs.

Common noncore vaccines include:

1. Bordetella Vaccine：

The Bordetella vaccine protects dogs from the highly contagious respiratory disease caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria that is transmitted through direct contact (licking, nose-to-nose interaction), airborne particles (from coughing or sneezing), or contaminated objects, leading to inflammation of the trachea and bronchi. It's important to note that this bacterium can spread between dogs and cats.

This vaccination significantly reduces the risk of infection and prevents kennel cough and is particularly recommended for dogs that often go outside or daycare/boarding, interact with other dogs or cats, or live in areas where the disease is prevalent.

The vaccine is typically administered annually and can be given subcutaneously, orally, or as a single-dose intranasal spray. For the first vaccination: If given subcutaneously, a booster is needed 2-4 weeks after the initial shot. If given intranasally, only one dose is required. If administered orally, a single dose is also sufficient. Puppies can generally be vaccinated starting at 6-8 weeks of age.

2. Lyme Vaccine：

The Lyme vaccine is used to prevent Lyme disease, a condition also known as Lyme borreliosis. The disease is caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria and is transmitted through tick bites.

The most common symptoms in dogs include fever, loss of appetite, joint pain or swelling, intermittent lameness, enlarged lymph nodes, and lethargy. If not treated promptly, Lyme disease can lead to damage in kidneys, nervous system, and heart. Dogs that frequently play in grassy areas should have this vaccine regularly.

The vaccine is typically administered via a subcutaneous injection once a year. For the initial vaccination, a booster shot is given 2-4 weeks after the first dose. Puppies are generally eligible for vaccination starting at 14 weeks of age.

3. Leptospira Vaccine：

The Leptospira vaccine is used to protect dogs from infection by the Leptospira bacteria, which can persist in hidden parts of the immune system once it infects a dog. Infected animals may shed leptospires in their urine and genital secretions for months to years.

Dogs can contract the infection through direct contact with infected urine or contaminated water sources, through bites or other breaks in the skin, by consuming infected tissues, or via exposure at birth to the Leptospira bacteria.

The vaccine is typically administered subcutaneously (under the skin) and is given annually. A booster is recommended 2-4 weeks after the initial vaccination. Puppies can be vaccinated as early as 8-9 weeks of age.

4. Influenza Vaccine - H3N8/H3N2：

The influenza vaccine is a bivalent vaccine that protects dogs from 2 highly contagious strains of virus. Symptoms of canine influenza often include lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, coughing, and discharge from the eyes or nose, and may also include vomiting. If the condition worsens, it can lead to pneumonia.

The virus typically spreads through close proximity to infected dogs, contact with contaminated objects, and transmission by people moving between infected and uninfected dogs.

The vaccine is usually given as a subcutaneous injection once a year. A booster is recommended 2-4 weeks after the initial dose. It generally takes 3-4 weeks to develop immunity after vaccination.

3. Puppy Vaccinations

For newborn puppies, if their mother has a healthy immune system, they are likely to receive antibodies through her milk during the nursing period. After this period, the vaccination schedule for puppies should begin between 6-8 weeks of age.

Rabies Vaccine: First shot at 16 weeks of age, and then a booster shot is required every 1 or 3 years depending on local regulations and the specific vaccine used.

Combination Vaccine：First dose at 6-8 weeks of age; second dose at 9-11 weeks of age; third dose at 12-14 weeks of age; fourth dose at 16-17 weeks of age, and then an annual booster shot is recommended thereafter.

4. Deworming

Dogs are pets that typically go outside every day, and during walks, they often sniff, lick, and paw at things on the ground, making them susceptible to intestinal parasites. These parasites can cause symptoms like diarrhea and gastroenteritis in dogs, and in severe cases, can even be fatal. Additionally, many dogs enjoy playing in dog parks and interacting with other dogs. For the health and safety of your own pet, in addition to getting both core and non-core vaccines, it's also crucial to regularly deworm your dog.

Common Parasites in Dogs in the US:

1. Roundworms: These are one of the most common intestinal worms in dogs. They can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and a pot-bellied appearance.

2. Hookworms: These attach to the lining of the intestine and feed on blood, leading to anemia and, in severe cases, can be life-threatening, especially in puppies.

3. Tapeworms: Dogs typically get tapeworms from ingesting an infected flea. Signs include weight loss and visible segments of the worm near the dog’s anus

4. Whipworms: These worms live in the colon and cause bloody diarrhea and weight loss.

5. Heartworms: Transmitted by mosquitoes, heartworms are a serious concern as they live in the lungs and heart, causing severe lung disease, heart failure, and other organ damage.

Fleas and Ticks:

In addition to internal parasites, dogs are also commonly affected by external parasites like fleas and ticks, which can cause a range of health issues. It's important to regularly use flea and tick prevention products. Options include topical treatments, oral medications, and collars designed to repel and kill these pests. Regular checks after walks, especially through grassy or wooded areas, can help catch ticks before they cause harm. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian for recommendations on the best flea and tick prevention methods suited for your dog’s environment and lifestyle.

In the United States, popular chain pet stores and online platforms like PetSmart, Petco, and Chewy offer over-the-counter deworming medications for dogs. Dog owners should determine the dosage based on your dog's weight and the advice of a veterinarian.

Some deworming medications in the U.S. require a prescription. You'll need to visit a veterinary clinic to obtain a prescription from a vet before you can purchase these medications. Always ensure that you are using the appropriate type of deworming treatment to effectively and safely manage parasitic infections in your dog.

5. Does pet insurance cover vaccination?

Generally, standard pet insurance policies in the United States do not include coverage for vaccinations. Therefore, dog owners should consider exploring options for Preventative Care or Wellness Plans.

According to data from the ASPCA, pet owners can spend over $400 annually on health check-ups, vaccinations, spaying/neutering, parasite screening, and preventative medications for fleas, ticks, and heartworm. Preventative Care plans are specifically designed to cover these expenses and are usually offered as add-ons to pet insurance policies. Coverage details for Preventative Care can vary between different insurance companies and plans. We highly recommend owners read the terms and conditions of the policy carefully before purchasing.

Reference:

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