Core Vaccines for our Canine
Rabies (Required) This vaccine is given after your dog is 12 weeks of age and then at one year and every three years after that. Rabies is a severe disease that affects an animal's neurologic system and can make them more aggressive, stumble; seizure, and they can act like they are in a stupor. Conversely, wildlife with rabies will often act more friendly. Any warm-blooded animal can have and transmit rabies, but bats are the most common carriers in the northwest Rabies is transmitted through bite wounds. Rabies vaccination is so important because of the severity of the disease, the fact that it is an incurable disease, and because of the public health implication (people can contract rabies). DHLPP (Required) (D = Distemper, H = Infectious Canine Hepatitis, L = Leptospirosis, P = Parainfluenza, P=Parvovirus) This vaccine is given at 8, 10, 12, 16 and sometimes 20 weeks of age and then yearly. Distemper A viral disease transmitted by aerosolization of infective droplets. It can cause neurologic disease, respiratory disease, conjunctivitis, and seizures. Infectious Canine Hepatitis, a viral disease that is shed in the urine and feces and is picked up through the oral and nasal cavity. It can cause a fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, coughing, and lethargy. Leptospirosis This is a bacterial disease that is shed in the urine and can be found in standing water. It can cause liver and kidney disease manifesting as fever, inappetance, and increased thirst or decreased urine production. It is not a common disease in the Portland area. Parainfluenza This is a virus transmitted by aerosolization. It is part of the kennel cough disease complex and often will manifest itself as a cough. Parvovirus This is a viral disease that causes severe bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and can result in death if the animal is not treated promptly. It is shed in the feces of animals and can live in the environment for a long time. Coronavirus This is a viral disease that can cause diarrhea (typically in very young puppies). It is sometimes given with the DHLPP vaccine on the same schedule (at 8,10,12,16 weeks and yearly thereafter). Since the virus rarely causes a disease in older animals, it is typically given only if it is required for boarding at specified kennels. Bordetella (Required) This is a bacterial disease that is part of the kennel cough complex. Animals with the disease will often present with a cough. The vaccine is recommended for dogs that are going to board in a kennel or will be around other dogs in a confined space (dog shows or obedience classes). The vaccine is given yearly but it is best to have your dog vaccinated 7-10 days before they arrive at the kennel. Flea and Tick Control (Required March though October Recommend year round) Protecting your dog from fleas and ticks is an important part of responsible pet care. Use of fleas and ticks control is a good protection from Lyme disease. Although there are many brands of over-the-counter flea and tick products available at supermarkets and pet supply stores, it is critical to read their labels and consult with your veterinarian before using them on your companion. These products may contain ingredients that could harm pets and children. For the safest and best results have your veterinarian for the treatment. Never use dog treatments on cats, and vice versa. We strongly do not recommend flea collars being used in confined areas. The rest of the vaccines listed are not commonly given because of the low prevalence of the disease and concern about adverse reactions or the unproven efficacy of the vaccines Lyme disease This is a bacterial disease transmitted from ticks that typically causes arthritis and a fever. Giardia This is a protozoan that typically causes diarrhea. The disease is usually cleared by the dog but can become serious. If your dog has access to natural flowing water like streams, lakes or irrigation water, you may seriously consider having your dog vaccinated. This is a fairly new vaccine that is given yearly.