Why Do Animals Need Vaccinations?
Immunizations begin at an early age and are given in a series to ensure good protection. The young animal’s immunity is not complete until it has completed the entire series of vaccinations. Unless indicated otherwise, all the vaccines discussed in this chapter require an initial series of two to four vaccinations, followed by regular yearly boosters. Dog Diseases and Vaccination Schedules The dog, or canine, vaccination series usually begins when puppies are six to eight weeks old. The series consists of three or four visits, the last of which takes place when the puppy is about four months old. Once the puppy has completed the “puppy shots,” it should return to the veterinarian yearly for booster vaccinations to maintain a protective antibody level.
