Pet vaccinations are not only a way to protect animals from disease, but they are also a way to protect humans. Some diseases such as rabies can be transmitted from animals to humans, often with fatal results. That's why our veterinarian at Westside Animal Hospital in Cincinnati, OH, recommends you keep your pet's vaccinations up-to-date. Vaccines protect you, your family, and your pet's health.
Vaccines work by triggering an animal's immune system to create antibodies that help fight off infections. Although vaccines help your pet develop immunity, a single vaccination does not provide full protection for life. Most pets need booster shots to maintain their immunity. We recommend setting up an immunization schedule for your pet by speaking with one of our veterinarians.
Canine Vaccines
Veterinarians separate canine immunizations into core and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are given to all dogs, but non-core vaccines are given based on your dog's lifestyle. The following core vaccinations are recommended:
Core Canine Vaccines
- Rabies. State law requires up-to-date rabies shots for all dogs.
- Distemper. Canine distemper is fatal unless your pet has been vaccinated against the disease.
- Canine Hepatitis. Adenovirus, which is transmitted through contaminated feces or saliva, can be fatal.
- Parvovirus. Parvo, which comes from contaminated feces, can quickly dehydrate an animal.
- Parainfluenza. Para is transmitted through nasal secretions.
DHPP is a combination shot that protects against distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza.
Non-core Canine Vaccines
Non-core vaccines include the following:
- Canine influenza
- Lyme Disease
- Bordetella
- Leptospirosis
Discuss your pet's need for non-core immunizations with our veterinarian.
Canine Vaccine Schedule
- 6 to 8 weeks. Distemper and parvovirus
- 10 to 12 weeks. DHPP
- 16 to 18 weeks. DHPP, rabies
- 12 months. DHPP, rabies
- Every three years. DHPP, rabies
Non-core vaccinations are given annually.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Veterinarian for Dog Vaccinations in Cincinnati, OH
Call Westside Animal Hospital today at (513) 574-5000 for more information or to schedule an appointment. We will create a vaccination schedule designed to keep your pet happy and healthy for years to come.
