Like humans, dogs need certain vaccinations to stay healthy and lead long, happy lives. Whether you’re a longtime dog owner or you just brought home your first puppy, the team at Crescent Springs Animal Hospital in Crescent Springs, Kentucky, knows it can be difficult to keep track of your pup’s schedule of vaccinations.

To keep your dog healthy and on track, follow the tips provided by the expert animal clinic:

• Know The Core Vaccines: Certain vaccinations are either required or encouraged by law because they protect both dogs and humans against common diseases. These vaccines include those for parvo, distemper, rabies, and adenovirus-2. Typically, vaccinations for puppies begin between the ages of six and eight weeks, and additional boosters are administered as needed.

• Understand The Duration Of Immunity: Duration of immunity, or DOI, is an important component of staying on schedule with vaccinations. For instance, rabies vaccinations can preserve immunity for a period of three years, and distemper and parvo vaccines may last between four and seven years. While your local animal clinic will be able to determine the best booster schedule for your dog, there are also tests available to determine a dog’s individual level of immunity. 
• Consider Non-Core Vaccines: In addition to the core vaccines listed above, others may be recommended based on your location and whether or not you intend to travel. For instance, it’s important to take your pet to the animal hospital to receive a bordetella vaccine if you plan to bring them to the kennel. The professionals at the animal clinic may also go over additional vaccinations with you, such as those for parainfluenza virus and Leptospira.

If you would like to set up a vaccine schedule for your dog at Crescent Springs Animal Hospital, you can speak with one of their helpful associates by calling (859) 331-6608. You may also visit the pet hospital’s website to learn more.