Dog vaccination: rules, myths and reality

The main thing about vaccinations

To make the preparation for vaccination more understandable, first we will understand: how vaccinations work. During vaccination, a killed or weakened causative agent of the disease, an antigen, is introduced. The immune system in response begins to produce antibodies that destroy this agent. If a real infection had occurred and the antigen had not been weakened, unprepared immunity could not cope with it. But vaccination “acquaints” the body with the pathogen, and the produced antibodies are present in the blood for about a year. If during this period an infection occurs, from which the vaccine was introduced, the body will meet it fully armed, with ready-made antibodies. The immune system will be prepared.

Now it is clear that great importance in vaccination is given to the immune response to the introduction of the vaccine. Only strong immunity can “process” the antigen and produce a sufficient amount of antibodies, the work of which does not interfere with anything. 

The main thing with vaccination is a strong immune system.

Dog vaccination rules

In order not to be mistaken with the vaccination of a dog, follow a proven scheme. Four rules will help you with this:

• Check the condition of the dog. Only clinically healthy pets are allowed to be vaccinated. Inflammation of the eye, a rash on the skin, or a small wound are reasons to postpone vaccination.

• Pay attention to special cases. Vaccination is not recommended or carried out with caution during the rehabilitation period after illness, pregnancy, lactation.

• Check the temperature of the dog a couple of days before the proposed vaccination. If it is elevated, postpone vaccination and find out the cause. 

The mode of walking and feeding before vaccination does not need to be changed.

• Get vaccinated at a good veterinary clinic. The specialist will assess the condition of the pet and perform the procedure in accordance with sanitary standards.

Myths about vaccination

I will tell you about two myths about dog vaccinations that are far from reality.

• The first myth – you can not vaccinate a dog without prior deworming

Vaccination is carried out only in clinically healthy pets – this is a prerequisite. This means that even if your dog has internal parasites but no symptoms, it is still possible to vaccinate it.

• The second myth is that puppies cannot be vaccinated against rabies, otherwise their teeth may turn black.

In reality, there is no connection between the introduction of modern vaccines according to the vaccination schedule and changes in the teeth, so feel free to vaccinate your pet at the right time.

Do not forget that vaccination is an annual procedure. Be sure to stick to: this is the only way you will protect the health of your pet!