Vaccinating your pet is an essential part of good pet care. While the specific schedule for dog vaccinations can vary, every dog owner should be sure to keep their pet up-to-date on the most important shots. Protect your dog’s health with some basic vaccine advice from Perry Animal Hospital.

Ask Your Veterinarian About These Dog Vaccinations

Distemper (DHPP or DHLPP)  

Usually called the “distemper shot,” this essential vaccine is actually a combo that will protect your dog against four or five different serious illnesses. DHPP is the most basic version – the acronym stands for Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus. The DHLPP shot also protects your dog against leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that can sometimes be spread to humans. Your dog should get some version of this vaccine during your first puppy care appointment.

Rabies

Rabies is extremely deadly to both animals and humans, and most counties in Georgia legally require pets to be vaccinated against rabies. Dog vaccinations for rabies last for either one year or three years, depending on the type of vaccine.

Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

Bordatella is not always considered a “core vaccine.” However, it’s a good idea to give your dog this vaccine before pet boarding, doggy daycare, or any other situation where he or she will be in close contact with other dogs. Kennel cough is highly contagious and easy to catch in these situations.

Choose Perry Animal Hospital as your veterinary clinic, and your dog will receive the highest quality pet care in Georgia. In addition to vaccinations and preventive care, the veterinarians at Perry Animal Hospital provide an enormous range of specialty services, including on-site pet boarding. Call the veterinary clinic at (478) 224-7387 to schedule an exam for your pet, or visit their website to learn more.