Just like people, your pets need animal vaccines to protect them against a range of diseases that can impact their health. These vaccines are available at your local animal hospital or vet clinic and should first be administered when your puppy is six weeks old. Here are some of the main animal vaccines to know about.

What Vaccinations Should Your Dog Have

1. DHPP

This combination shot protects your dog against distemper, a contagious virus which attacks the nervous system; canine hepatitis, previously called adenovirus, an acute liver infection; parainfluenza, which can cause kennel cough; and parvovirus, which damages the digestive and immune systems.

2. Bordetella

Bordatella can contribute to kennel cough. This bacteria is highly contagious between dogs. It can also affect cats and immunocompromised humans who come in contact with it.

3. Leptospirosis

This infection is caused by spirochetes, corkscrew-shaped bacteria which infect both humans and animals by burrowing through the skin. Even in healthy animals, they can cause severe kidney infections. These can also be passed to humans.

4. Canine Influenza

Canine influenza or "dog flu" produces symptoms similar to kennel cough. It also leaves dogs vulnerable to secondary infections from other viruses and bacteria. Without this shot, this bacteria can lead to pneumonia.

5. Rabies

This is the most well-known disease that affects dogs; animal vaccines that defend against it are required by law. Rabies causes serious nervous system and neurological damage. It cannot be treated once symptoms show, making prevention the only practical option.

To protect your dog from all these conditions, schedule an appointment at Animal Health Center in Enterprise, AL, so they can get their animal vaccines. Serving Coffee County for over 50 years, their experienced and certified emergency vets provide individualized care and owner education services. To schedule a visit, call (334) 347-0544 or send a message online.