Vaccinations

Core vaccinations include rabies, distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus. These are initially boosted within a year and then go on a three-year rotating schedule. Non-core vaccines are given yearly and include leptospirosis (exposure through the urine of infected skunks, raccoons), Lyme (exposure to the bite of an infected deer tick) and Bordetella (the ‘worst’ culprit in Canine Respiratory Disease Complex). This is recommended for all puppies, dogs that kennel and go to dog parks or grooming frequently.

Yes, we follow recommendations from AAHA. The initial puppy series and a booster a year later, are the most important vaccinations of your dog’s life. Following the core, vaccines go on a three-year schedule and non-core vaccines remain yearly.

Ontario is the only province where rabies vaccination is actually required by law. The recent resurgence of wildlife cases of rabies in the Hamilton & Caledonia areas demonstrates why a current rabies vaccine is so important. Rabies is a fatal disease and has serious consequences with respect to human exposure. Parvovirus is a disease of unvaccinated dogs and is ubiquitous/everywhere. Vaccination works. Puppies can and do die from this disease, which causes profuse diarrhea and vomiting.

Each of our patients are unique in their needs for vaccinations, based on their lifestyle. Call Park Road Veterinary Clinic to discuss your dog’s specific vaccination requirements.