Vaccinations

Vaccinations are one of the greatest modern medical discoveries; they allow for pre-emptive protection from diseases that can be fatal if transmitted. Vaccines work by introducing small amounts of weakened antigens from a virus or bacterium into your pet. Instead of making your pet sick, they stimulate your pet’s immune system to produce antibodies, which your pet’s body uses to fight infection. When your pet encounters the real virus or bacteria in the environment, his or her body recognizes these antigens and summons antibodies much more quickly to fight infection. Your veterinarian can discuss the appropriate vaccine protocol for your pet with you at your pet’s yearly general health exam.

What types of vaccinations does your clinic offer for adult dogs?

For dogs and puppies, we recommend the canine core vaccine (Distemper/Adenovirus Type 2/Parvovirus), rabies vaccine and possibly the Bordetella (a kennel cough) vaccine depending on your dog’s lifestyle.

Is there a schedule for how often to vaccinate a dog?

Kamloops Veterinary Clinic has switched to vaccines that are licensed by the federal government to protect dogs from common infectious diseases for 3 years in mature dogs. Mature Dogs: Rabies, distemper, hepatitis and parvo vaccine booster is given every 3 years. A kennel cough vaccine may be needed for dogs that attend dog parks, dog daycare centers or boarding kennels. That vaccine that will aid in the prevention of canine Kennel Cough associated with the canine parainfluenza virus, and Bordetella bronchiseptica disease complex and is typically good for one year.

Why is it important to vaccinate your dog?

Although there are no regulations requiring you to vaccinate your pet, vaccines are a great way to limit your pet’s risk of disease and the spread of disease to other animals in the area. We strongly recommend that you keep your pet’s vaccines up to date and booster them as directed by your veterinarian.

Wondering which vaccines your dog may need?

Check out this lifestyle vaccine calculator that will give you a sense of what the veterinarian may recommend for your pet based on their lifestyle.