6 Reasons Why Dog Vaccinations in Oklahoma City, OK are Important

Do you have a dog, or are you thinking of getting one? Do you find yourself wondering whether you should have your dog vaccinated according to the most common vet recommendations? If so, you’re not alone. Many dog owners question this practice and wonder if vaccinations are really that important for their dogs.

In the article below, you’ll find out more information about some of the reasons why vaccinations for dogs are important. Read through this list and figure out for yourself whether you want to prioritize these benefits of vaccinations for your own dog.

1. Vaccinations Help Stop the Spread of Fatal Dog Diseases

There are many fatal diseases for dogs, and having your dog vaccinated against them can help reduce the impact of those diseases in your area. Just like humans, dogs rely on herd immunity to cut down on the risk of these diseases, and only vaccinations can help provide that immunity.
Some types of dog diseases are more fatal than others, and some dog owners choose to only have their dogs vaccinated against those that are always or almost always fatal. You can speak to your veterinarian for more information if you’re thinking of going this route with your dog.

2. Vaccinations Can Help Your Dog Stay Healthier for Longer

Although it may go without saying, dog vaccinations can help keep your pet healthy. For example, if your dog receives a vaccination for Bordetella, this will prevent him from being able to contract the illness related to Bordetella, which is most known as kennel cough. He will be healthier because of this.

Some diseases dogs can contract may cause lifelong problems, such as canine hepatitis or Lyme disease. By vaccinating your dog against these diseases, you will remove his risk of being able to get sick with them in the first place, which will in turn remove the risk of long-term effects.

3. Vaccinations are Especially Important for Older Dogs and Puppies

Older dogs may be more prone to contacting serious cases of illness and disease than younger dogs. Just like humans, dogs become less likely to fight off disease successfully the older they get. Therefore, if you have an older dog, you can help him stay healthy in his golden years by getting him vaccinated.

On the other hand, puppies are extremely prone to disease as well. Puppies do not have a fully formed immune system and can sadly die very easily when they contract common dog diseases. Parvo is one of the most common, but there is a vaccination for this disease.

4. Vaccinations are Required by Law in Some Situations

In some areas, certain dog vaccinations are required by law. Throughout the United States and much of the rest of the world, it is required by law to have dogs vaccinated against rabies. Neglecting to do so can put your dog at risk and can get you into legal trouble if anything goes wrong, too.

In some areas, it is also required by law or very strongly encouraged to have dogs vaccinated against Lyme disease and canine influenza, too. This varies by location, but it is important to check up on laws that may change the vaccinations your dog needs.

5. Vaccinations are Required by Landlords, Hotels, Dog Parks and More

If you rent your home, your landlord is very likely to require fully vaccinations for your dog, other than just rabies. The same is true of some Homeowner’s Associations, so if you own a home in an area with an HOA, you should check with them on this matter as well.

Dog parks also require vaccinations for dogs to be able to visit. Additionally, many hotels and other destinations that allow pets will require you to bring your dog’s vaccination records. Finally, dog boarding facilities also require vaccinations before you can use them and will especially require the Bordetella vaccine.

6. Vaccinations Make it Safe for Your Dog to be Around Other Dogs

If you plan to have your dog around other dogs, such as at a dog park or in any crowded situation where multiple dogs may be present, you should have your dog vaccinated. This will make it safe for him to be around any dogs who may not be vaccinated yet themselves, and it will reduce his risk of getting badly sick.

On the other hand, it will also reduce the chances that he can make another dog sick by carrying a serious disease. The safety and wellness of all dogs involved is one of the most important benefits of vaccinating your pet.

Your Hefner Road Animal Hospital Vet is Here to Help

There’s a lot to consider when you’re looking into vaccinations for dogs. Speak to your vet for more information about these vaccinations in general as well as specific recommendations for your own individual dog. Your vet will give you the best possible custom-tailored information. To book an appointment with your Hefner Road Animal Hospital vet call (405) 773-5557!