Vaccinations
Don't forget that your dog needs booster shots once a year for
their entire life to maintain protection.

Q & A:
After vaccination do some pets develop mild soreness at the
injection sites?  Yes and this is normal and the site may
appear slightly lethargic.  Some unusual symptoms are
marked facial swelling, difficulty breathing or signs of extreme
discomfort.  If this happens contact your vet immediately.

Can my dog be allergic to vaccines?  In some extremely rare
cases.

Just remember that the risk of side effects out weighs the
dangers of contracting these deadly diseases.

Information provided by VCA Animal Hospitals.
Does my dog need shots?
Keep your pets happy and
healthy through vaccinating.
Why do puppies need extra shots?
Because they get into things.  In the first few months of life
puppies must be vaccinated several times.  This is because
their immune systems cannot fight off disease as well as
adults.  It is important they receive the right vaccines at the
right time in order to maximize their protection.  A rule of
thumb is to start shots around 6 to 8 weeks old.  A booster
should be given at 10 to 12 weeks and then 14 to 16 weeks
old.  Rabies should be given separately at 12 to 16 weeks.

What vaccines does my dog need?:
The most important shots are listed:
Rabies: This is the most important of all vaccines.  
Rabies is a serious disease with the potential to infect
humans.  Unfortunately there is no cure for rabies and it
IS FATAL.  Please see the rabies page if you think your
pet may have this disease.
Canine Distemper: This is an essential vaccine for
dogs as the virus is widespread.  For unprotected dogs
this disease can be fatal, especially for puppies.  
However, if your dog is properly vaccinated it is highly
likely that it will contract distemper.
Parvovirus:  This can cause acute severe
gastrointestinal disease.  Without aggressive   
treatment puppies and dogs are at risk.  Death may
occur in some cases despite the aggressive therapy.
Depending on where you live your vet may recommend
Bordatella (see kennel cough page),  leptospirosis, and
Lyme disease.