Vaccinating your Dog
Why do I need to vaccinate my dog?
At Yorkshire Vets we believe that annual vaccinations are essential to protect your dog against life threatening diseases.
What should I vaccinate my dog against?
Parvovirus causes severe diarrhoea and vomiting and even with intensive treatment can prove fatal. The virus can survive in the environment for years and the disease is seen regularly in this area.
Distemper is still occasionally seen in Leeds and Bradford. Affected dogs start with diarrhoea and vomiting and progress to pneumonia and seizures. Again, even aggressive therapy is not always successful.
Leptospirosis and hepatitis are seen less commonly in this area but your dog could be exposed for example, if you take him walking in the countryside.
Our vaccinations also protect against parainfluenza virus, one of the viruses that causes kennel cough.
How do I vaccinate a new puppy?
Puppies should start their vaccination course at 8 weeks old; they then have a second vaccination 2 weeks later. This should be followed up with annual booster vaccinations and you will receive a reminder in the post when your pet's vaccination is due. An annual booster is an ideal opportunity for your pet to have a health check and for us to answer any queries you may have. Your puppy must not be allowed contact with unvaccinated dogs or exposed to areas where they visit until 2 weeks after the second vaccination.
What about early socialisation?
As part of early socialisation it is valuable for puppies to meet and play with dogs who are vaccinated and healthy.
How do I vaccinate an older dog?
Older unvaccinated dogs require 2 vaccinations 2 weeks apart followed by annual boosters.
What about Boosters?
All dogs benefit from an annual heath check when we give the boosters jabs necessary.
Do I need Kennel Cough too?
Kennel cough vaccination is required by many boarding kennels before they will accept your dog.
The vaccination lasts for 12 months and can be given at the same time as your annual booster. Kennel cough can be spread in any situation where dogs meet, so if your dog is in contact with a lot of other dogs, for instance at a training class, it may be advisable to give him this protection. Dogs with chronic illnesses such as heart disease may also benefit from vaccination.
Does my dog need a Rabies Shot?
Rabies vaccination is not necessary for dogs who are permanently resident in the UK. If you wish to take your dog abroad he will require a rabies vaccination as part of the Pet Passport requirements.