As a dog parent, you want to do everything possible to keep your furry friend healthy and happy. Vaccinations are essential to this equation, as they protect your dog from a wide range of potentially deadly diseases. At FurBuds Veterinary Clinic in Opelika, we offer a variety of vaccinations that help protect your pet from serious and sometimes fatal illnesses. Read on to learn more and schedule an appointment in Alabama for your pup today!
How Many Vaccinations Does a Dog Need?
Essential Dog Vaccinations
There are a few vaccines that are essential for every pup, no matter their lifestyle or living situation. These vaccines guard against common and potentially fatal illnesses like distemper, parvovirus, and rabies. We usually give core vaccines in a series of three or four shots, beginning when your furry friend is between six and eight weeks old.
Non-Core Dog Shots
These vaccines guard against diseases your pooch may be vulnerable to based on factors such as breed, age, and location. From Lyme disease to kennel cough, our team can help you determine which non-core vaccines are right for your furry companion.
Lifestyle Considerations
Your pup’s lifestyle is another major factor in determining how many vaccinations it needs. For example, if they love playing in tick-prone areas, they might benefit from a Lyme disease vaccine. If they're a social butterfly at dog parks, they might need a vaccine for canine influenza. Your Opelika vet will help you decide which lifestyle-based vaccines are best for your furry friend.
Timing
It's important to get your dog vaccinated at the right time for the shots to work effectively. For core pet vaccinations, we usually give them as a series of shots when your puppy is around six to eight weeks old, with boosters given every three or four weeks until they're about 16 weeks old. After that, booster shots are recommended every one to three years depending on the vaccine. Non-core vaccines may have different schedules, so it's best to talk to your vet about it.
When it comes to your pet's health, you want to ensure they are in the best hands possible. Our licensed and experienced veterinarians at FurBuds are dedicated to providing expert care and support for your furry friend. From vaccinations to pet health exams, we offer a range of services to help keep your pet happy and safe. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your pet healthy.