Urban Dog Living - Vaccines and Your Dog's Health

Keep your dog healthy by taking him in for an annual checkup at least once a year.   With the advent of 3 year vaccines the cost of seeing the vet has decreased.   When you go to the vet make sure your dog is up to date on his Rabies, Distemper (Distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, hepatitis, coronovirus and leptospirosis), and Bordatella vaccines.  The  Bordatella vaccine is usually given if you are boarding your dog or if your dog attends daycare.  In the city it is good practice to get your dog the bordatella vaccine if you live in a condo with a lot of other dogs around.  You never know which dog is going to bring home a bug and share it with your dog.

If your city dog gets out on great hikes in the woods you can also get a Lymes vaccine.

Keep in mind that a Rabies vaccine is required by law.   Rabid raccoons and foxes can be found in cities too.

Heartworm and flea medications can be purchased online or at the big box stores.   The vet's office may try to sell you heartworm and flea medications, but keep in mind they might have a high markup.  Save money and purchase online.  There are discounts and coupons all the time.

Tip for the Day:
Schedule a check up for Poochy.  Make sure that he is up to date on his vaccines and gets a clean bill of health.  Put a reminder in your smartphone on the first of every month to give Poochy his heartworm and flea medication.