Carol Stream Animal Hospital Offers Core Dog Vaccinations

Vaccinations protect dogs against common diseases that cause severe illness or even death. Ensuring that dogs get regular, recommended vaccinations protects their health, as well as helps to keep your veterinary expenses low. Certain vaccinations are considered “core” vaccines in that they protect against the most commonly encountered diseases that are transmitted within the canine population. Your dog may be exposed to these diseases whenever they are in the company of other dogs, such as at boarding facilities, dog parks or even when encountering other dogs on the street.

Recommended “Core” Vaccinations

All dogs should receive the core vaccinations against parvovirus, distemper, canine hepatitis and rabies. Your veterinarian will advise you on the schedule on which your dog should receive a shot, depending on your dog’s age, medical history, lifestyle and the environment in which it lives. Puppies receive these core vaccinations on a slightly different schedule, starting at 12 weeks and given over a period of time. Most dogs experience no side effects from vaccines. However, some may have soreness at the site of vaccination, nausea, diarrhea, fever or sluggishness. Heartworm medication is also given to protect dogs against these worms that are transmitted through mosquito bites.

Additional “Non-Core” Vaccinations Your Dog May Need

Your Carol Stream vet may also recommend other vaccinations, based on your dog’s lifestyle and whether the animal is likely to be exposed to certain pathogens. Vaccinating against bordetella, borrelia burgdorferia and leptospira bacteria may be necessary if you board your dog while you are away or in areas where outbreaks of these diseases have occurred.

Call Your Carol Stream Veterinarian Today!

Dr. Contreras, Dr. McCarthy and the friendly staff at Carol Stream Animal Hospital are dedicated to providing compassionate care to all their patients. We work with dogs and cats, but also treat other species. At our facility, we offer wellness exams, sick animal care, vaccinations, dental care, laboratory services, microchipping, spay and neuter surgery, other surgeries, behavioral counseling, puppy classes and emergency care. Call your Carol Stream veterinarian today at 630-462-7888 for an appointment to discuss the dog vaccinations that will help to keep your pet happy and healthy.