Canince Vaccine Recommendations

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Required Vaccines

Rabies- a fatal illness that also can be spread to humans. Wisconsin law requires all dogs to be current on their rabies vaccination.

  • Puppies- one vaccine after 12 weeks of age, valid for 1 year.
  • Adults- initial vaccine is valid for 1-year, subsequent vaccines are valid for 3 years.

DAP Combination- Distemper is a contagious virus that affects a dog’s respiratory, GI and nervous system. It can be fatal. Parvovirus is also a highly contagious virus that affects a dog’s GI tract. It can contaminate the ground for 6 months to 1 year.

  • Puppies- all puppies should be vaccinated every 3-4 weeks until they are over 16 weeks of age.
  • Adults- adults should be vaccinated every 3 years after their initial vaccine series.

Leptospirosis- a bacterial illness spread in the urine of wildlife (deer, raccoons, rodents). It can cause permanent liver and kidney damage and can spread to humans.

  • Puppies- two booster vaccines given 3-4 weeks apart.
  • Adults- one vaccine given annually. If the vaccine is given 3 or more months overdue, a booster vaccine 3-4 weeks later is recommended for full protection.

Bordetella- one of the bacterial organisms that can cause “kennel cough.” In puppies, infection with Bordetella can lead to pneumonia. Adult dogs who are go to dog parks, boarding, daycare, or grooming facilities should be vaccinated against Bordetella.

  • Puppies- one vaccine given after 6 weeks of age
  • Adults- risk-based. Can be given every 6-12 months depending on facility requirements.

Risk-based Vaccines

Lyme Disease- a tick-borne disease that can affect dogs and humans. Dogs who go “up north,” go hiking or have a heavy tick burden should be vaccinated against this disease.

  • Puppies- two vaccine boosters given 3-4 weeks apart.
  • Adults- one vaccine given annually. If the vaccine is given 3 or more months overdue, a booster vaccine 3-4 weeks later is recommended for full protection.

Canine Influenza- a respiratory illness also known as the canine flu. It can cause coughing and if uncontrolled, pneumonia. Dogs who frequently travel around the country and see other dogs should be vaccinated against CIV.

  • Puppies- two vaccine boosters given 3-4 weeks apart.
  • Adults- one vaccine given annually. If the vaccine is given 3 or more months overdue, a booster vaccine 3-4 weeks later is recommended for full protection.