The importance of vaccinating your dog: Protect health & happiness

Every caring dog owner's worst nightmare is the thought of their dog becoming ill or injured. Vaccinating your dog against main canine illnesses can save your pet from pain and you from the emotional and financial strain of treating preventable diseases. If you're unsure about what vaccination involves, the illnesses it protects against, or how to get your dog protected, this guide will enlighten you.

What is vaccination?

Vaccination introduces a safe, inactive strain of a virus or bacteria into your dog's system, teaching their immune system to recognise and fight the illness naturally. Most vaccines are injected, while the kennel cough vaccine uses a nasal spray. In the UK, combined vaccines protect against multiple diseases with just one or two injections.

Puppies are typically vaccinated twice: first at around six weeks old, and then two to four weeks later. It's vital puppies avoid contact with unvaccinated dogs before completing this course to protect their developing immune system. This is why puppies aren't usually walked outside during their early months. Adult dogs who haven't been vaccinated can receive vaccinations at any age, subject to their health. Annual boosters for all dogs help maintain protection throughout life.

For responsible pet owners, finding puppies from reputable breeders and keeping up vaccination schedules go hand in hand to ensure a healthy start.

Key diseases vaccinated against in the UK

Parvovirus or Parvo

Canine parvovirus mainly affects young unvaccinated puppies and has a high mortality rate. It attacks intestinal cells, causing severe vomiting and diarrhoea.

Canine Distemper

Canine distemper, also known as 'hardpad,' is a virus attacking the central nervous system, gut and lungs. It is usually fatal despite treatment.

Canine Parainfluenza Virus and Kennel Cough

Canine parainfluenza is a viral strain commonly involved in kennel cough, a contagious respiratory illness. The kennel cough vaccine primarily protects against bordetella bronchiseptica, the most common bacterial cause. Kennel cough causes a dry, hacking cough and is highly transmissible, making vaccination necessary, especially when boarding your dog.

Infectious Canine Hepatitis

This disease affects the liver, kidneys, eyes, and lungs, posing a serious threat to unvaccinated dogs. Prompt treatment can aid recovery, but mortality remains high without vaccination.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection contracted through contact with contaminated water or infected animal urine. It can cause permanent kidney damage and can be transmitted to humans. Vaccination and early antibiotic treatment are crucial to prevent fatal outcomes.

Canine Coronavirus

This intestinal disease is highly contagious and can increase susceptibility to parvovirus. Coronavirus vaccination is a relatively recent addition and not all vets include it as standard. Discuss with your vet whether it’s recommended for your dog.

Rabies

Rabies has been eradicated in the UK, so vaccination is not routinely given. However, if travelling abroad with your dog, rabies vaccination is required for pet passport regulations to avoid quarantine upon return.

The cost of vaccinating your dog

Vaccination costs vary across the UK, typically between £50 and £80 for an initial two-dose puppy course, with annual boosters costing around £40 to £60. While these costs may seem high, they pale in comparison to veterinary hospitalisation fees for treating preventable diseases, which can be very expensive.

Vaccinations are an investment in your dog's health and longevity, helping to prevent devastating illnesses and reduce stress for you and your pet. Responsible ownership means keeping vaccinations up to date and understanding their vital role in disease prevention and community health.

When should puppies get vaccinated?

Quick Answer: Puppies should begin vaccination at approximately six to eight weeks of age and receive a second dose two to four weeks later. Avoid contact with unvaccinated dogs until the full series and boosters are complete.

Starting vaccination at the right age is critical because puppies’ immune systems are immature and vulnerable. The usual schedule in the UK begins with the first vaccine around six to eight weeks, followed by a booster after two to four weeks. During this period, puppies should be kept away from other dogs to prevent exposure to infectious diseases. Annual boosters after this help maintain immunity for life.

Why are booster vaccinations important?

Booster vaccines are essential to sustain immunity once the initial vaccination course is completed. Immunity can wane over time, and boosters help ‘remind’ the immune system to remain prepared to counter infections. This practice protects your dog effectively throughout their life, helping to prevent outbreaks of dangerous diseases.

Frequently asked question: How long after the second puppy vaccination can puppies go out?

Quick Answer: Puppies can typically start safe socialisation and walks about one to two weeks after their second vaccination, but always follow your vet’s advice based on local disease risk.

After completing the second dose of their initial vaccination, puppies start to develop adequate immunity. Veterinarians often recommend waiting an additional week to ensure the vaccine has taken full effect before exposing puppies to unfamiliar environments or other dogs. Taking this precaution reduces the risk of infection during this vulnerable stage.

Summary and next steps

Vaccinating your dog is one of the most important ways to protect their health and wellbeing, preventing many serious and potentially fatal diseases. Start vaccinations on time, keep up with recommended booster schedules, and consult your vet to tailor your dog's vaccination plan according to their lifestyle and health. Responsible vaccination protects not only your dog but also other animals and people in your community.

For those looking to find a puppy or choose Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies or other breeds from reputable breeders, ensuring the puppy is vaccinated starting early is key to setting them up for a long, healthy life.