Vaccinations for Dogs

 

Core Vaccines

 

Rabies Vaccination

Under Missouri State Law, all dogs and cats must receive a rabies vaccination by the age of 4 months and at designated intervals thereafter. Rabies is an intensely infectious viral condition that targets the brain and central nervous system. It can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with an infected animal's saliva.

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Distemper/Parvo Combination Vaccination

Distemper manifests initially with symptoms resembling the flu and can progress to show neurological signs in its advanced stages. As an airborne virus, distemper can spread not only through direct contact but also via clothing, air, and exposure to infected bodily fluids, including tainted food and water. There's no specific cure for this virus, with only general supportive care available as a treatment option.

 

Parvovirus targets rapidly dividing cells, predominantly in the gastrointestinal system, leading to severe ailments. Typical symptoms include a lack of appetite, bloody diarrhea, dehydration, fever, vomiting, stomach pain, and fatigue. Parvo, being highly infectious, spreads through feces that have been contaminated. The virus can cling to clothing and remains viable in external environments for extended periods.

 

Optional vaccines that are highly recommended

 

Bordetella (Kennel Cough) Vaccination

Bordetella is a highly infectious bacterium responsible for upper respiratory infections, spreading mainly through airborne transmission. Common signs of this infection encompass intense coughing bouts, throat irritation, potential phlegm-induced vomiting, fatigue, discharge from the nose and eyes, and reduced appetite.

 

Leptospirosis Vaccination

Leptospirosis is caused by a bacterium spread through the urine of various animals like deer, rats, raccoons, horses, cows, and pigs. This disease, which can be transmitted to humans, is lethal if not promptly and correctly treated. Animals often get infected by consuming water (like puddles, ponds, or lakes) tainted with the bacterium. Both dogs and humans can experience kidney and/or liver failure due to this condition. Indications of Leptospirosis encompass fever, nausea, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, diminished appetite, increased thirst and urination, profound fatigue, rigidity, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), muscle soreness, and reproductive issues.

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Optional vaccines recommended based off lifestyle

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Canine Influenza Vaccination

Commonly referred to as dog flu, Canine Influenza is a viral infection that's extremely contagious, affecting both dogs and cats. It spreads through the air, with symptoms like coughing, nasal discharge, fever, tiredness, eye discharge, and a decreased appetite. However, not every dog will exhibit these symptoms. Vaccination against this illness is advisable for dogs frequenting grooming salons, dog parks, boarding kennels, or daycare centers.

 

Lyme Vaccination

This vaccination safeguards dogs from Lyme disease, carried by ticks. It's particularly recommended for dogs that often head North, frequent the Lake of the Ozarks, or serve as hunting partners.