Core vaccines are recommended for every dog and puppy. They are considered vital because they protect your dog from harmful diseases and illnesses that have a high risk of exposure or are highly contagious to other dogs or humans. Keeping up to date on your dog’s core vaccines protects not only them, but your whole family and community. 

What vaccines are considered core, and what is the plan of action for your dog if it is not yet vaccinated? Read more to find out.  

The Following Vaccines Are Considered Core: 

• DAPP: This vaccine prevents canine distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), parvovirus, and parainfluenza; all deadly viruses or diseases when left untreated. 
• Rabies: This deadly viral infection of the nervous system causes sudden, progressive inflammation in the brain and spinal cord. Most cases of humans getting rabies is from an infected dog biting them. Rabies is untreatable and is highly contagious to humans. 

How Often Does My Dog Need These Core Vaccines? 

• DAPP : All puppies should receive at least 3 doses between the ages of 8 to 16 weeks, given 3-4 weeks apart. They should also receive a 1 year booster.  

If you have an adult dog that has not had its vaccines yet, they require 2 doses at 3-4 week intervals. Annual vaccination is not recommended for adults, so we use a 3 year vaccination interval after the 1 year booster.

• Rabies: State statutes dictate rabies vaccine protocols. In Iowa, puppies should receive one dose as early as 4 months, then receive a 1 year booster. After that, they should receive a vaccine every 3 years. 

If your dog is unvaccinated, they receive a single dose, a booster at 1 year, and then every 3 years after that. 

If your dog is past due on their 3 year vaccination, a 1 year rabies must be provided. 

Why Are Core Vaccines So Important? 

Core vaccines protect your loved ones from preventable high-risk health problems. It is a crucial part of the preventative care that should be provided to all of our pets.  

Is your pet up to date on their core vaccines? Make an appointment today.