Just like our human children, our family dogs benefit from socialization and playtime with peers. Doggie daycare is a great option for busy pet parents with sociable dogs.
While the benefits of exercise, attention and socialization outweigh the risks, there are important steps to take to make sure your canine companion is safe for their first day at doggie daycare. In addition to core vaccines such as rabies and DAP (distemper, adenovirus and parvovirus), immunizations for contagious upper respiratory pathogens are key to keeping your dog healthy.
Bordetella, the causative agent of “kennel cough” is a bacteria that can be protected against with a simple intranasal or oral vaccine. Canine influenza has also been on the rise in recent years. A two-series immunization is available and highly protective. Typically, immunity sets in two weeks after the final vaccine.
Protecting your canine companion also includes monthly parasite prevention. Heartworm disease, fleas, ticks and intestinal parasites can also be shared among friends in a daycare setting. The Companion Animal Parasite Council and the American Heartworm Association recommend that all dogs are on year-round, monthly deworming, ectoparasite control and heartworm prevention.
Talk with your vet to be sure that your pet is fully protected before taking him to doggie daycare. Then, let the zoomies begin!
Wilvet South Open 24/7 120 Ramsgate Square S wilvetsalem.com
(503) 741-8858
Emily Kalenius, DVM
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