Pet vaccinations are an essential step in keeping your dog healthy and alive as long as possible. Not only do they prevent debilitating and potentially deadly illnesses, but they also reduce the need for emergency vet visits due to sickness. Our team at Crosspointe Animal Hospital provides a variety of veterinary services for our furry friends in and around Lorton, Clifton, and Fairfax Station. Schedule your dog’s next vaccination appointment with us!

The Importance of Pet Vaccinations

Just like children need vaccinations to ward off harmful viruses and diseases, so do pets. Like young children, your pet can’t tell you when something is wrong. Pet vaccinations help prevent these illnesses from attacking your canine companion in the first place.

Recommended Dog Vaccinations

There are several types of vaccinations available for your dog, but your dog might not need all of them. The following, however, are recommended for all dogs.

DHPP

DHPP is also known as DAPP, DHLPP, Distemper, and Distemper Combo. It’s a combination vaccination that protects against the following viruses:

• Distemper: Canine distemper is a disease that attacks several of the body’s systems, including the nervous system. It can lead to coughing, diarrhea, paralysis, seizures, and death.
• Hepatitis/Adenovirus: This virus attacks several organs, including a dog’s kidneys, spleen, lungs, and more. In the most severe cases, it can lead to death.
• Parainfluenza: Canine parainfluenza often leads to kennel cough and respiratory issues.
• Parvovirus: Parvovirus is highly contagious and very dangerous. It can kill a dog in just two to three days, and there’s no cure. Prevention is key.

DHPP vaccinations should begin within your dog’s first six to eight weeks of life, and then every two to four weeks until they reach 16 weeks old. After that, they will need a booster every one to three years. Rabies

Rabies is a virus that can be spread to other animals and humans. It’s not only essential that your dog be vaccinated against it but also required by law. Your puppy should get the first shot by 18 weeks old, another by the time they are 16 months old, and then every one to three years.

Optional Yet Important Vaccinations

Depending on your pet, where you live, whether they are around livestock, and other factors, your veterinarian might recommend the following vaccinations, as well.

• Bordetella
• Leptospirosis
• Coronavirus
• Lyme Disease

Keep Your Dog Healthy with Vaccinations

Whether it’s time for pet vaccinations or you need emergency vet care, our team at Crosspointe Animal Hospital is here for you. If you live in or around Lorton, Clifton, or Fairfax Station, call our team today at (703) 690-6600 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.