Yearly Visits - Which shots are really necessary?

[Jazz & Jane]

It's time for our "yearly" visit. After reading all the "hoopla" over innoculations for the doodles, I'm curious what everyone is doing. What do we really "need" for our area of the US? Looking for advice from others that really know the facts.

[Belinda Stevens]

Wow...that is a good question. We need a Vet in the group!

[Valerie and Cody]

I would definitely get all of the following: 1) Rabies- This is typically a 3 year vaccine, but it is required by law.
2) DHLPP- This protects against distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, and
parvovirus. Distemper and Parvo are the ones everyone is most familiar with. Lepto,
however, is definitely making a comeback. Plus, it's zoonotic, meaning it can be
transferred to people.
3) Bordatella- This is the kennel cough vaccine. It's really only necessary if you plan on
boarding your dog. However, I always recommend it because it will save you tons of
time if you get it now rather than waiting until just before you board.
I hope that helps!

[Deb, Connor & Simon]

Rabies immunization is required by law. However your dog may have the proper antibodies to not need other immunizations every year. The best thing you can do is have your pup's blood titers checked. That way you can find out if she has the immunity she needs. My vet was hesitant about the lepto immunizations, but I'd check with your dr to see his/her opinion. I think one of the "tricks" to not having a negative reaction is not to have ALL the immunizations at one time. From what I've read, scheduling them 2-3 weeks apart (2 separate shots) is better for your dog's immune system.

Also, in dogs with a weakened immune system, the bordatella vaccine can actually give bordatella symptoms to the dog -- this is generally true in the very young or elderly. Just check with your vet. :-)