As pet owners, we all want our dogs to live long, happy, and healthy lives. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect them from serious diseases is through vaccination. Vaccinating your dog will not only keep your dog safe but also help prevent the spread of contagious diseases in the wider pet community.
If you’ve ever wondered why vaccinations are so important or which ones your dog needs, this guide will cover everything you need to know.
How Do Vaccinations Work?
Vaccines prepare your dog’s immune system to fight off harmful diseases. They contain a safe version of a virus or bacteria (either weakened or inactive), which stimulates the immune system to develop protective antibodies. If your dog is ever exposed to the actual disease, their immune system is already prepared to fight it off, reducing the risk of severe illness.
Vaccinations don’t just protect your pet – they also help prevent disease outbreaks and protect vulnerable dogs who may be too young or too sick to be vaccinated.
What Diseases Do Dog Vaccinations Protect Against?
In Australia, there are several highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases that dogs should be vaccinated against:
Core Vaccinations (Essential for All Dogs)
These core vaccinations protect against life-threatening diseases that can affect all dogs, regardless of lifestyle:
✅ Parvovirus – A deadly virus that causes severe vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, and can be fatal, especially in puppies. It spreads easily through contaminated surfaces and infected faeces.
✅ Distemper – A highly contagious virus that affects the respiratory, nervous, and gastrointestinal systems, leading to fever, seizures, and often fatal complications.
✅ Infectious Hepatitis (Canine Adenovirus) – Causes liver damage, fever, and eye inflammation. It spreads through bodily fluids and can be deadly.
✅ Canine Parainfluenza Virus – A common cause of kennel cough, leading to a persistent, hacking cough and respiratory infection.
✅ Kennel Cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica & Parainfluenza virus) – Highly contagious and commonly spread in boarding facilities, dog parks, and grooming salons.
When Should Your Dog Be Vaccinated?
Puppies and adult dogs require different vaccination schedules to ensure full protection:
Puppy Vaccination Schedule (Initial Protection)
- 6-8 weeks old – First vaccination (C4: Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza)
- 10-12 weeks old – Second vaccination (C5: Core vaccines + Kennel Cough)
- 14-16 weeks old – Third vaccination (Final booster for full protection)
Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule (Ongoing Protection)
- Annual or tri-annual boosters – Depending on the type of vaccine, your dog will need yearly or every three-year booster to maintain immunity.
Your vet will tailor a vaccination schedule to suit your dog’s needs.
Why Are Regular Vaccinations Important?
Skipping vaccinations or delaying boosters can put your dog at serious risk. Here’s why keeping up to date with vaccinations is essential:
✅ Prevents Deadly Diseases – Many of the diseases we vaccinate against have no cure and can be fatal. Prevention is the best protection.
✅ Protects Puppies When They’re Most Vulnerable – Young puppies have weaker immune systems and rely on vaccinations to build immunity.
✅ Prevents Disease Outbreaks in the Community – Vaccinating your dog helps stop the spread of contagious diseases, protecting all dogs.
✅ Required for Boarding & Social Activities – Most dog kennels, daycares, and training facilities require up-to-date vaccinations to accept dogs.
✅ Saves You Money on Costly Vet Bills – Treating serious diseases like parvovirus can be expensive and require intensive care. Vaccinations are a much safer and more affordable option.
Are Vaccines Safe for Dogs?
Yes! Veterinary vaccines are rigorously tested and proven to be safe and effective. Some dogs may experience mild side effects like soreness at the injection site or slight lethargy, but these effects usually disappear within a day or two. Serious reactions are extremely rare.
If you have any concerns about vaccinations, talk to your vet—they can answer any questions and tailor a schedule to suit your dog’s health needs.
Book Your Dog’s Vaccination Today!
Vaccinating your dog is one of the easiest ways to keep them healthy and safe. If your dog is due for a vaccination or if you’re unsure of their vaccination history, book an appointment today.
