Vaccinations FOR DOGS

Vaccinations protect your dog from contagious and potentially deadly diseases, such as rabies, parvovirus, and distemper. They work by preparing your dog’s immune system to fight off specific viruses or bacteria. In South Carolina, some vaccines, like rabies, are required by law to protect both pets and people. Vaccinations also help maintain herd immunity, reducing disease spread in our community.

We tailor vaccine protocols to each dog’s age, lifestyle, and risk factors, following AAHA guidelines. Vaccines are divided into core (recommended for all dogs) and non-core (based on lifestyle):

Core Vaccines:

• Rabies: Required by South Carolina law for dogs by 16 weeks of age, with boosters every 1-3 years depending on the vaccine.
• DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus): Protects against four serious diseases. Puppies get a series starting at 6-8 weeks, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks, then every 3 years for adults.
• Non-Core Vaccines:
• Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Recommended for dogs visiting boarding facilities, daycare, or dog parks. Given every 6-12 months.
• Leptospirosis: Now considered core by AAHA due to its prevalence in South Carolina. Protects against a zoonotic bacterial disease spread through water or wildlife, given annually.
• Lyme Disease: Suggested for dogs in tick-heavy areas. Requires two initial doses, then annual boosters.

During your visit, we’ll discuss your dog’s lifestyle—whether they hike, board, or stay home—to recommend the right vaccines.

Yes, vaccinations are generally very safe. At Clover Vet, we use high-quality vaccines and follow strict protocols to minimize risks. Mild side effects, like slight lethargy or soreness, may occur but typically resolve within a day. Serious reactions, such as allergic responses, are rare. If you notice symptoms like vomiting, swelling, or difficulty breathing after vaccination, contact us immediately at [Insert Phone Number]. We tailor our approach to avoid unnecessary vaccines, ensuring your dog’s safety and comfort.

Puppies need a series of vaccinations starting at 6-8 weeks, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks to build strong immunity. Adult dogs typically receive:

• Rabies: Every 1-3 years, per South Carolina law and vaccine type.
• DHPP: Every 3 years after the initial puppy series.
• Leptospirosis: Annually for at-risk dogs.
• Non-core vaccines (e.g., Bordetella): Every 6-12 months, depending on exposure.

We’ll create a personalized schedule during your dog’s wellness exam to keep them protected without over-vaccinating.

Not every vaccine is needed for every dog. At Clover Vet, we customize protocols based on your dog’s needs. For example, a dog that stays indoors may not need Bordetella, while one that frequents dog parks might benefit from it. Rabies is mandatory in South Carolina, but other vaccines depend on factors like travel, boarding, or outdoor activities. We base our recommendations on AAHA and American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) guidelines to ensure your dog gets only what’s necessary.

Skipping vaccinations puts your dog at risk for serious, preventable diseases. For instance, parvovirus is highly contagious in South Carolina and often fatal, especially in puppies. Unvaccinated dogs can also spread diseases like rabies to other animals or people, which is why it’s legally required. If your dog is unvaccinated and exposed to disease, treatment can be costly and may not always succeed. We’re happy to discuss any concerns to find a plan you’re comfortable with.

Yes, puppies need vaccinations to protect them as their maternal immunity fades. We start the puppy vaccine series at 6-8 weeks, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks. This typically includes DHPP and, later, rabies and leptospirosis. Early vaccination is critical because puppies are highly vulnerable to diseases like parvovirus. We use Fear Free techniques to make these visits stress-free for your pup.

Heartworm prevention is not a vaccine but a crucial part of your dog’s health plan in South Carolina, where mosquitoes thrive year-round. Heartworms, spread by mosquito bites, can cause severe heart and lung damage. We recommend year-round prevention, such as monthly chewables or injectables, starting as early as 6-8 weeks. During your visit, we’ll test for heartworms and suggest the best preventive option.

Most dogs tolerate vaccines well, but mild side effects like tiredness, reduced appetite, or soreness at the injection site can occur for a day or two. Rarely, allergic reactions (e.g., facial swelling, hives) may happen. We monitor your dog during appointments and provide guidance on what to watch for at home. Our tailored approach reduces the chance of adverse reactions by avoiding unnecessary vaccines.

We stay informed about emerging diseases by following AAHA, AVMA, and other veterinary authorities. For example, leptospirosis has become more prevalent in South Carolina, leading to its recent classification as a core vaccine by AAHA. We also monitor local trends, like parvovirus outbreaks, to adjust our recommendations. Rest assured, we’ll keep your dog protected against both common and emerging threats.