Vaccinations have been one of the most important breakthroughs in the field of medicine. It has saved countless lives and has helped in the eradication of certain diseases. The same applies to veterinary medicine, particularly in the field of dog care. Vaccinations have proven to be an effective way of preventing fatal diseases among dogs, and it is essential for dog owners to understand their importance.
What is Active Immunization?
Active immunization is the introduction into the body of killed or satisfied microorganisms or their products for the purpose of stimulating the body’s defense mechanism. This process stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies that can combat the specific virus or bacteria. Vaccines, which are composed of weakened or dead viruses or bacteria, are given to the body to help it build immunity against certain diseases.
The Importance of Vaccinating Dogs
Dogs, like humans, are also vulnerable to a variety of infectious diseases that can be fatal if left untreated. In the past, the potential benefits of vaccinations in veterinary medicine were not fully realized. However, recent developments in the field have paved the way for vaccines that combat the alarming increase in death in dogs caused by viral infections.
Leptospirosis, hepatitis, upper respiratory infections, and parvovirus are just some of the diseases that can be prevented by vaccination. Immunizing puppies are particularly important because they get their immunity from their mother’s milk, which tends to lose its effects by the time the puppies are already 6 to 20 weeks old. In order to protect puppies against infectious diseases, it is best to give them their shots and should be re-immunized after 3 to 4 weeks. This way, puppies will be able to endure any infectious disease that may come their way.
Rabies and Vaccination
Rabies is an acute and almost invariably fatal disease that can be communicated to man through the saliva of a rabid animal, usually dogs, foxes, squirrels, and bats. Fortunately, dogs always present evidence of the disease before becoming infective. The course of rabies in dogs is characterized by an incubation period of 20 to 30 days, followed by a period of excitement when the animal becomes vicious. The excitement stage may be evident at all or may be entirely absent. Paralysis then develops, first involving the hind legs and thereafter becoming general. Death occurs within 10 days following the first symptom.
The effects of rabies on human beings can also be fatal, and it is best to have your dogs vaccinated with anti-rabies shots to avoid these problems. Rabies vaccines can be given during the 16th to the 26th week of the puppies. This requires a follow-up shot one year after for total protection.
Precautions to Take
While vaccines are generally safe for dogs, certain precautions should be taken. Not all vaccinations will generate adverse effects on dogs, but it is best to always observe your dogs after vaccination. When certain reactions occur like vomiting, facial swelling, or trembling, it is best to discuss these matters immediately with your veterinarian.
It is also important to consider the age of the dogs before subjecting them to their shots. For puppies that are 4 to 20 weeks old, their first shots should be given during their 6th to 8th weeks of age. The last shots shall be given on the 14th to 16th week of age. These dates apply to all primary vaccines. For rabies, puppies should be 16 to 26 weeks old.
Dogs that are older than 2 years should receive annual booster shots to ensure that they are protected against various diseases.
Precautions to Take When Vaccinating Dogs
While vaccinations are important for dogs, there are certain precautions that dog owners should take when vaccinating their dogs. Here are some tips:
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Always consult a veterinarian: It is important to consult a veterinarian before vaccinating your dog. They can recommend the appropriate vaccines based on your dog’s age, breed, lifestyle, and environment.
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Observe your dog after vaccination: After your dog is vaccinated, you should observe them for any adverse reactions. Some dogs may experience vomiting, facial swelling, or trembling after vaccination. If you notice any adverse reactions, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
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Consider your dog’s age: It is important to consider your dog’s age before vaccinating them. Puppies and older dogs may have weaker immune systems, which can make them more susceptible to adverse reactions. It is important to follow the recommended vaccination schedule for your dog’s age.
Conclusion
In conclusion, active immunization plays a crucial role in keeping dogs healthy and protected against a wide range of diseases caused by various viruses and bacteria. Vaccinations are essential in the prevention of diseases such as leptospirosis, hepatitis, upper respiratory infections, parvovirus, and rabies, which can be fatal to dogs.
It is important for dog owners to understand that puppies are vulnerable to infectious diseases and that they need to be immunized at an early age. The first round of vaccinations should be given when the puppy is 6 to 8 weeks old and should be re-immunized after 3 to 4 weeks. Booster shots are also essential in prolonging immunity in dogs and should be given annually.
Lastly, dog owners should always observe their dogs after vaccinations and report any adverse reactions to their veterinarian immediately. Vaccinations are a crucial aspect of dog healthcare, and they provide long-term protection against a wide range of diseases. With vaccinations, every dog can live a healthy, disease-free life.
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