Vaccinations work by stimulating the bodys immune system to produce antibodies to the disease in question. Vaccination is not a cure but a prevention and in order to be most effective it requires the majority of dogs to be included in the programme.
The antibodies produced by vaccination decrease in both concentration and efficacy over time, hence the need for regular [yearly] boosters. Vaccinations do not cause the disease however on rare occasions reactions to vaccination occur on an individual basis and are due to the materials used in the vaccine preparation.
Diseases to vaccinate against.
In the Emerald Region the diseases to protect against are:
- Distemper – essential
- Infectious Hepatitis – essential
- Parvo Virus – essential
- Canine Kennel Cough – essential
- Leptospirosis – recommended
Vaccination Schedules:
Initial vaccination for puppies involves injections at 6,12 and 16 weeks, with an annual booster.
Vaccinations save lives and helps prevent the contagious diseases spreading and affecting larger numbers of the canine population. For more detailed information on this subject please call the Emerald Vet Clinic on 4982 1555.