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Dog & Puppy Vaccinations

 

Vaccinations are essential for protecting dogs from serious infectious diseases. They help safeguard your pet’s health and prevent the spread of illness within the broader pet community.

Do puppies need vaccinations?

Yes, puppies require an initial series of vaccinations to help build immunity against common diseases. This early protection is vital for their long-term health.

Do adult dogs need booster shots?

Yes. To maintain strong immunity throughout their life, adult dogs should receive regular booster vaccinations—typically on an annual basis.

What is the best vaccination schedule for my dog?

The best vaccination plan depends on your dog’s age, lifestyle, and health status. Contact us to discuss a tailored vaccination schedule for your puppy or adult dog.

What should I expect after my dog’s vaccination?

It’s normal for some dogs to feel a little unwell for a day or two after vaccination. Mild swelling or tenderness at the injection site may also occur.

How can I care for my dog after vaccination?

Provide a quiet space, fresh water, and access to food. Most dogs recover comfortably without extra care. Monitor them and allow rest.

What should I do if my dog has a reaction to the vaccine?

If your dog experiences a more significant or unusual reaction, such as prolonged lethargy, vomiting, or swelling, please contact us immediately for advice.

Cairns Southside Dog Vaccinations
Cairns Southside Dog Vaccinations

Canine Parvovirus Dog Vaccinations

Canine Parvovirus can affect dogs of all ages but is most common in puppies. It attacks the intestines, causing bloody diarrhoea, vomiting and severe pain. Even with intensive care, some dogs do not survive. The virus spreads through dog faeces and remains in the environment long after waste is removed. Direct contact with infected dogs is not necessary for transmission. Due to its persistence, contaminated areas must be disinfected with a strong cleaner to prevent further spread. Parvovirus outbreaks are frequent, especially in summer, with around 20,000 cases reported annually in Australia. Vaccination is the best defence against this highly contagious disease.

Canine Hepatitis

infectious canine hepatitis (also known as Canine Adenovirus type1) is a viral disease which is extremely contagious and often fatal. Dogs of any age can become infected, however severe cases are rare in dogs over two years of age. Symptoms include high fever, depression, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea and acute abdominal pain.

Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a highly contagious virus that affects dogs of all ages, with puppies at the greatest risk. Symptoms vary and may include fever, coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and lethargy. In severe cases, muscle tremors, seizures and paralysis can develop. Treatment is often ineffective, and survival rates are low. Vaccination is the best way to protect your pet from this serious disease. We can help.

 

Cairns Southside Dog Vaccinations

Leptospirosis Dog Vaccinations

Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial disease that can be fatal. It spreads through the urine of infected rats and is transmitted when dogs drink contaminated water, eat rats, or suffer rat bites. The risk is higher in areas with large rat populations, rubbish dumps and sugar cane regions. Outbreaks can increase after heavy rain. Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can also infect humans through contaminated food, water or open wounds. Vaccination and minimising exposure to potential sources of infection are key to protecting both pets and people. We can help.

Cairns Southside Dog Vaccinations

Kennel Cough Dog Vaccinations

Kennel Cough is a highly contagious condition caused by various viruses and bacteria. It spreads easily wherever dogs gather, including parks, grooming salons, obedience schools and kennels. Key infectious agents include Bordetella bronchiseptica and viruses such as parainfluenza, adenovirus type 2 and distemper. Affected dogs develop a persistent dry, hacking cough that can last for weeks, causing distress for both pets and owners. For working and sporting dogs, it can be particularly disruptive. In some cases, especially in young dogs, the infection can lead to pneumonia. Vaccination helps reduce the risk and severity of kennel cough.

Cairns Southside Dog Vaccinations

Tetanus Vaccination

Tetanus is a highly fatal disease caused by an infection with the Clostridium tetani bacteria. It enters the body through a wound or though erupting adult teeth in puppies when they are teething. It causes severe muscle rigidity and hypersensitivity to sound and touch. It is preventable through vaccinations. Have a chat with one of our veterinarians to see whether your puppy is at risk of getting Tetanus.

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