-
Parasitic diseases in rabbits: the commonest threats and how to prevent them
Coccidiosis, encephalitozoonosis, ear mange and cheyletiellosis are the parasitic diseases pet rabbits meet most often, and they can go unnoticed for a long time. We explain how they are diagnosed in the laboratory, how they are treated, and which hygiene, quarantine and feeding rules keep infection at bay.
-
How to protect your dog’s paws in winter
Frost, ice and road salt leave a dog's pads irritated, cracked and sometimes frostbitten every winter. We explain how to pick a route and a protective wax before the walk, how to rinse and dry the paws properly once you are home, and which signs mean it is time to call the veterinary clinic.
-
Horner’s syndrome in dogs and cats: signs, causes, diagnosis and treatment
A drooping eyelid, a smaller pupil and a visible third eyelid on one side add up to Horner's syndrome. It is not painful in itself and does not harm sight, but it often signals another, more serious condition underneath. We explain the causes, the diagnostic steps, the pharmacological tests and the treatment options.
What does a dog’s vaccination schedule look like?
When does a dog get its first vaccination?
A dog’s vaccination schedule depends on factors such as its age, whether its history and previous vaccinations are known, its current state of health and past illnesses.
The schedule starts no earlier than when the puppy is 8 weeks old. The course consists of a vaccine against infectious diseases, which has to be repeated twice, and one rabies vaccination. There must be an appropriate gap between these so that the body can respond properly to the vaccine.
What are dogs vaccinated against?
Vaccines against infectious diseases differ in exactly which diseases they cover. After taking a history, the vet will be able to choose the right product for your dog. The diseases dogs are vaccinated against are:
Are there any contraindications to vaccination?
To vaccinate a dog, the vet must be sure the animal is healthy, which is why every appointment starts with a clinical examination. Signs such as a raised temperature, a runny nose, coughing, general malaise, worm infestation, or even a course of antibiotics or ongoing treatment, rule out vaccination at that particular time. Once treatment is finished, there should be nothing to stop the dog from being vaccinated.
Occasionally, a dog may be allergic to a particular type of vaccine. In that case, a product from a different manufacturer can be used to avoid anaphylactic shock. Owners must always tell the vet if a similar problem has occurred in the past; it is then usually recommended to split the vaccines against infectious diseases and rabies into two separate injections.
What are the signs of anaphylactic shock after vaccination?
An abnormal reaction to a vaccine is most likely to occur immediately after the injection. The more time passes after vaccination, the lower the risk, but on the day of vaccination the dog should be kept under the owner’s constant observation as far as possible, because an allergic reaction can sometimes appear even several hours later. Typical signs of shock include:
A less serious sign of an adverse reaction is a local reaction at the injection site, which may be painful for around two days, as well as reduced activity or a poorer appetite. These should clear up on their own within a few days.
If any adverse signs appear, contact a vet straight away, ideally the one treating your dog or the one who gave the vaccination.
How to prepare a dog for vaccination?
A week before each vaccination, it is recommended to worm the dog or have a faecal test for parasites. On the day of vaccination, it is best if the dog is not subjected to excessive physical exertion. If it is hot outside, it is a good idea to book an evening appointment so as not to put unnecessary strain on the body.
Vaccination records make decisions about vaccination much easier, because preventive procedures are often carried out at different clinics, and the record contains details of the vaccines used and the dates they were given.