Introduction
Dog vaccinations are crucial for protecting our canine companions from dangerous diseases. In Texas, dog owners are legally required to vaccinate dogs for rabies starting at 4 months of age. Beyond rabies, there are core vaccines like distemper and parvovirus that are highly recommended to keep dogs healthy. Non-core vaccines may also be suggested based on the dog’s risk factors and lifestyle. This article will provide an overview of the main vaccines Texas dog owners should be aware of, including rabies, distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, and kennel cough. We’ll also outline the typical vaccine schedule for puppies and adult dogs.
Core Vaccines
Core vaccines are those that are considered essential for all dogs, according to the American Animal Hospital Association’s (AAHA) canine vaccination guidelines ([1]). These vaccines protect against diseases that are highly contagious, potentially life-threatening, and pose a risk to public health. Core vaccines provide a basic level of immunity that is recommended for essentially every dog.
The main core vaccines for dogs are distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, and rabies ([2]). These vaccines are considered “core” because the diseases they protect against are very prevalent and spread easily between dogs. Distemper, adenovirus, and parvovirus are airborne viruses that affect the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Rabies is almost always fatal in unvaccinated dogs. Core vaccines are imperative to prevent outbreaks and safeguard the greater canine population.
While individual dogs may have different vaccine protocol based on lifestyle and risk factors, the core vaccines form a foundation for ensuring the health and wellbeing of all dogs. By vaccinating dogs for these highly virulent diseases that could lead to death or permanent disability, core vaccines allow dogs to live happier and healthier lives.
[1] https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/2022-aaha-canine-vaccination-guidelines/recommendations-for-core-and-noncore-canine-vaccines/
[2] https://www.salishvet.com/services/dogs/blog/what-are-core-and-non-core-vaccines-dogs-your-faqs-answered-national-pet
Rabies
Texas law requires that dogs and cats be vaccinated against rabies by 4 months of age. After the initial vaccination, dogs and cats must receive a rabies booster 1 year later and then every 3 years thereafter. The rabies vaccine must be administered by a licensed veterinarian (1).
The rabies vaccine is considered a “core” vaccine for dogs in Texas, meaning it is required by law. Rabies is a fatal viral disease that attacks the central nervous system. It is primarily spread through a bite from an infected animal. Since rabies is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans, vaccination of dogs and cats is critical for public health (2).
Some key points on the rabies vaccine requirement in Texas:
- Initial vaccination must be given by 4 months of age
- Rabies booster 1 year after initial vaccine
- Repeat rabies vaccination every 3 years thereafter
- Administered by a licensed veterinarian
- Required by law to protect animal and human health
Distemper
Distemper is a highly contagious and serious disease caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of dogs. It is often fatal, especially in puppies. Distemper spreads through airborne exposure and contact with body fluids from an infected dog. Common symptoms include fever, eye inflammation, eye/nose discharge, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, twitching, and paralysis.1
The distemper vaccine is considered a core vaccine for all dogs. Core vaccines are those that are vital for every dog to receive because the diseases they protect against are severe and life-threatening. Vaccination for distemper is extremely important since the virus is easily transmitted and often deadly. Puppies receive a series of distemper vaccinations starting as young as 6 weeks old to ensure full protection.2 Annual vaccination is recommended for continued immunity against this highly contagious virus.
Parvovirus
Canine parvovirus (also known as parvo) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs and can be fatal, especially in puppies. The parvovirus attacks the gastrointestinal tract, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Puppies less than 4 months old are most susceptible as they have not yet been vaccinated against the virus. The parvo vaccine is considered a core vaccine because of how common and potentially lethal parvovirus is.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the parvovirus vaccination is usually given as part of a combination vaccine that also protects against other illnesses like distemper (AVMA). The vaccine stimulates the dog’s immune system to produce antibodies against parvovirus so they are protected from infection. It is recommended that puppies receive a series of parvo vaccinations starting at 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters every 2-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. Adult dogs should receive parvo boosters every 1-3 years to maintain immunity.
Getting dogs properly vaccinated for parvo is crucial because treatment options are limited once infected, and mortality rates are high, especially when aggressive fluid therapy is not available. The parvo vaccination has been hugely successful in protecting the canine population from what used to be a devastating illness (Daily Paws). Having dogs receive core parvo vaccines on schedule is the best way to prevent outbreaks and keep our canine companions healthy and safe from this dangerous virus.
Non-Core Vaccines
Non-core vaccines are those that are required by only certain dogs, depending on the dog’s lifestyle and exposure risk. These vaccines are not considered essential for every dog. According to the Vaccination Guidelines for Dogs and Cats, some examples of non-core vaccines include:
- Leptospirosis – Protects against the bacterial infection leptospirosis.
- Kennel Cough – Protects against Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza, two common causes of kennel cough.
- Lyme Disease – Protects against the bacterial disease transmitted by ticks.
- Canine Influenza Virus – Protects against canine flu viruses H3N8 and H3N2.
These vaccines may be recommended for dogs with a high exposure risk, such as those who go to doggie daycare, board regularly, or live/travel to areas with a higher prevalence of these diseases. However, they are not considered core vaccines for all dogs in all regions. Your veterinarian can help determine if any non-core vaccines are recommended for your dog based on lifestyle and risk factors.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can be fatal to dogs if left untreated. It is spread through the urine of infected animals, and exposure often happens when dogs come into contact with contaminated water or soil. Leptospirosis is considered a high risk for dogs in Texas due to the climate and prevalence of rodents that can carry the bacteria.
Fortunately, an effective vaccine is available to protect dogs against leptospirosis. The newer vaccines protect against the most common strains that infect dogs in Texas (Texvetpets). Veterinarians strongly recommend vaccinating dogs in Texas against leptospirosis as part of their core vaccines. The vaccine requires an initial dose followed by a booster 3-4 weeks later, and then annual boosters thereafter.
With proper vaccination, leptospirosis can be prevented and dogs protected from this deadly disease. Pet owners in Texas should discuss leptospirosis vaccine options with their veterinarian and ensure their dogs receive this life-saving vaccine.
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, also known as bordetellosis, is an upper respiratory infection that dogs can get when exposed to the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria or virus. It is highly contagious and dogs usually catch it when in close contact with other dogs at places like boarding facilities, dog parks, groomers, daycares, etc. The main symptoms are a hacking cough that sounds harsh and dry, sometimes with retching. Other symptoms can include sneezing, runny nose, fever, and lack of appetite.
The bordetella vaccine helps prevent kennel cough in dogs. It is recommended especially for dogs that are frequently exposed to other dogs in the environments mentioned above. There are two main types of kennel cough vaccines – intranasal and injectable. The intranasal one provides faster immunity but the injectable one provides longer lasting immunity. Most boarding facilities, groomers, daycares, etc require dogs to be vaccinated against kennel cough before admitting them. The vaccine is considered non-core but is highly recommended for social dogs in Texas.
According to Emancipet, the bordetella vaccine costs around $25-$35 in Texas. It is given annually for continued protection. Puppies can receive their first bordetella vaccine as early as 6-8 weeks of age (https://emancipet.org/services/bordetella-vaccine/).
Vaccine Schedule
The core vaccines have recommended schedules for puppy and adult dogs. According to the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, the typical schedule for puppies is:
- 6-8 weeks: First DHPP (distemper, adenovirus [hepatitis], parainfluenza, and parvovirus) vaccine
- 9-11 weeks: Second DHPP vaccine
- 12-14 weeks: Third DHPP vaccine
- 12-16 weeks: Rabies vaccine
For adult dogs, the typical booster schedule is:
- 1 year after puppy series: DHPP and rabies vaccines
- Every 1-3 years: DHPP and rabies vaccines depending on risk factors and vaccination history
According to the East Dallas Veterinary Clinic, the first rabies vaccine should be given at 12-16 weeks, with a booster 1 year later, and then every 3 years after [1]. Leptospirosis vaccines are recommended annually for dogs at high risk [2].
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a few key shots that are required or recommended for dogs living in Texas.
The core vaccines that are absolutely required by law are rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. These protect against deadly diseases that can spread between animals and humans. All dogs should receive these vaccines on the standard schedule as puppies, with boosters throughout adulthood.
There are also non-core vaccines that may be recommended depending on the dog’s lifestyle and potential exposures. These include vaccines for leptospirosis and kennel cough. While not legally mandated, these can help protect dogs with higher risk. Discuss your specific dog’s needs with your vet.
Following the proper vaccination schedule is important for all pet dogs in Texas. Core vaccines should be administered on time as puppies and maintained consistently. Non-core vaccines can be added as needed. Keeping your dog up to date on all recommended shots supports their health and prevents dangerous infectious diseases.