Should You Vaccinate Your Dog?

Image: Google/Barkery Bath

I found this article on Everyday Health by Krista Magnifico, DVM.  I has some great information and I wanted to pass it on.  Is it important to vaccinate your dog?  Should you vaccinate your dog?  This article will answer those questions for you!   You vet should be able to tell you which vaccines your dog should get and which ones are important for your area.  Some states require different vaccines due to the area and surroundings.  This article is very helpful and I hope you enjoy it and gain information.

Vaccines help protect your pet from disease. Many of the vaccinations we give provide protection from the most common infectious ailments our pets face when they come into contact with other animals – some of which can be passed on to us. By simply vaccinating pets, rates of diseases like the following have been significantly reduced:

• Parvovirus: A viral infection that causes vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy primarily in young dogs under 6  months old.
• Distemper: A viral infection primarily in young or older unvaccinated dogs.
• Kennel cough: Highly contagious to all ages of dogs.
• Rabies: A viral infection that is fatal to dogs and can be fatal to humans.
• Lyme disease: A bacterial infection transmitted by a tick bite.

This is why it’s imperative to have a discussion with your vet and ask:

• Which vaccines are required?
• Which are recommended?
• Which apply to your pet’s specific needs?