Vaccination Basics, Lyme

Lyme disease is one of the most common tick-borne diseases and will show itself through recurrent lameness in the joints due to inflammation.  Other symptoms include decreased appetite, fever, difficulty breathing and being sensitive to the touch.

If your dog is diagnosed with Lyme disease he or she will be given antibiotics and will need to rest as much as possible.  On occasion joint pain has been known to continue after treatment is complete.

Lyme disease is transmitted through ticks so daily grooming and proper tick control are the first line of defense against the disease.  It’s important that you speak with your veterinarian about whether or not your dog should receive the vaccination.  Only dogs who veterinarians believe are in a high risk area should receive this non-core vaccination.

I am not a veterinarian, this is information I’ve learned over the years as a dog owner.  Should your dog have any health issues you should make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

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Pet Vaccination 101 - The Basics Dog Owners Need to Know

When a dog lover takes on the responsibility of buying or adopting a dog, there are some basic pet vaccination facts you should know. Vaccination for pets is absolutely imperative to keep that pet healthy and safe. There is actually a dog vaccines schedule that those who own dogs must adhere to, but, once you establish care at a veterinarian, he/she will help you keep your pet on track with that vaccination schedule. You will receive postcard reminders in the mail that your dog’s vaccinations are coming due as some are due yearly while others less often. When you bring a puppy into your home, it is your responsibility to find a vet immediately and get the puppy the first round of necessary vaccinations.

Doggie Diseases

Puppies are highly susceptible to a number of deadly disease, and for this reason, vaccinations are a must when you bring home a puppy. You must do whatever you can to keep that puppy healthy and make sure as he grows into adulthood, he is safe to be around, especially if there are children around. Vaccinations keep you and your dog safe and healthy for many, many years so you can enjoy a long, healthy life together. Here are the most common diseases for dogs:

Distemper
Parvovirus
Para influenza
Rabies
Leptospirosis
Giardia
Coronavirus
Bordetella
Bronchiseptica
Lyme Disease
Vaccination Times

According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), the first distemper vaccination should be given shortly after weaning and before the puppy is taken home to a new family or is exposed to other dogs. Many vets recommend vaccinating puppies at 5-6 weeks of age with a combination of distemper, measles and Para influenza vaccines. At five weeks, puppies must have a parvovirus vaccination. At 6-9 weeks, the puppy must have what is called the “combination vaccine” without leptospirosis, which protects your puppy from a number of diseases. At 6-9 weeks, he should also have coronavirus if there is a concern for that where you live.

At age 12 weeks, your puppy will get the rabies vaccination. At 12-15 weeks, he will get Leptospirosis, Coronavirus, and Lyme disease vaccines where this applies. Vaccination requirements vary in many areas, and your vet will let you know what is required and recommended for where you live. Throughout adulthood, your dog will get Leptospirosis, Coronavirus (where needed), Lyme disease (if needed) and Rabies vaccines when needed.

Knowing about pet vaccination is important for new parents of puppies. Vaccination for pets keeps them healthy and safe. Check with your vet to learn more about vaccines for dogs in your area.