Dog Vaccinations
(403) 679-2555
Protecting your dog from preventable diseases is one of the easiest and most important steps you can take to support their health.
Looking for reliable dog wellness care in Canmore?
Dog Vaccinations
Keeping your dog safe and healthy starts with the right protection. Vaccinations are a vital part of preventive care, helping your dog build immunity against serious but preventable diseases. From puppyhood to their senior years, vaccines support a longer, healthier life by reducing risk and strengthening the immune system.
If you’re unsure about which vaccines your dog needs or when to schedule them, the Veterinarians at Mountain Animal Hospital are here to walk you through it all. Our team takes time to understand your pet’s age, lifestyle, and risk factors so we can recommend a vaccination plan that’s just right for them.
Why Vaccines Matters for Your Dog and Puppy’s Health
Vaccinations are one of the most reliable ways to protect your dog from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. These simple injections help your pet’s immune system recognize and fight off harmful viruses and bacteria before they have a chance to take hold. With routine vaccines, dogs today are living longer, healthier lives with fewer preventable illnesses.
Just like people, dogs can be exposed to various diseases through contact with other animals, shared environments, or even outdoor adventures. Staying up to date with vaccinations is an important part of giving your pet the healthy life they deserve. Talk to your veterinarian if you’re unsure which vaccines your dog needs.
Dog Vaccines We Offer
Not every dog needs the same vaccines. Some live mostly indoors, others love hiking, swimming, or boarding at doggy daycare. That’s why we take a personalized approach to vaccination planning.
Core Vaccines for Dogs
These vaccines are essential for all dogs, regardless of age, breed, or lifestyle. They protect against highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly virus that affects the brain and nervous system and is transmissible to humans. Even indoor dogs are legally required to be vaccinated in most areas. Bites from wild animals or unexpected encounters on walks can put your pet at risk. This vaccine is essential for both public safety and your dog’s long-term health.
Distemper
Distemper
Distemper is a serious viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Dogs can catch it through shared bowls, toys, or contact with infected animals. It spreads quickly in dog parks and kennels and can be fatal if not prevented. Vaccinating helps avoid suffering and long-term complications.
Parvovirus
Parvo is highly contagious and particularly dangerous for puppies. It spreads through contact with infected feces or surfaces and can survive in the environment for months. Dogs who visit dog parks or go for regular walks are at higher risk. Early vaccination is critical to prevent severe dehydration, hospitalization, or death.
Adenovirus (Canine Hepatitis)
Adenovirus causes infectious canine hepatitis, affecting the liver and other organs. It can be contracted through urine or nasal secretions from infected dogs. Even healthy-looking dogs can carry and spread the virus. The vaccine is typically combined with others in a multivalent shot for broader protection.
Lifestyle Vaccines for Dogs
These vaccines are recommended based on your dog’s environment, activities, and potential exposure. Not every dog will need each of these, but for many, they are highly beneficial.
Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
Bordetella vaccine for dogs helps prevent kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory condition common in group settings. Dogs that attend daycare, grooming salons, dog parks, or boarding facilities are especially at risk. Most boarding centers require proof of Bordetella vaccination before accepting pets. It’s often recommended annually or biannually.
Canine Leptospirosis Vaccine
Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial infection that spreads through water contaminated with the urine of infected animals, particularly rodents and wildlife. Dogs that hike, swim, or drink from puddles, lakes, or streams are at higher risk of exposure. This disease can cause severe damage to the kidneys and liver and can also be transmitted to humans. Vaccinating your dog against leptospirosis helps protect not only their health but also the well-being of your entire household.
Lyme Vaccine
Transmitted by ticks, Lyme disease can lead to joint pain, fatigue, and kidney issues in dogs. Pets that live in or travel to wooded or grassy areas are most at risk, especially during warmer months. Even dogs who stay in the backyard can pick up ticks without you realizing it. The Lyme vaccine offers an added layer of protection alongside tick prevention methods.
Canine Influenza (Dog Flu)
Dog flu is a contagious respiratory illness that spreads quickly in crowded areas like shelters or dog shows. Dogs can catch it from airborne droplets, shared water bowls, or even humans carrying it on their hands or clothes. It often causes coughing, nasal discharge, and lethargy. Vaccination is especially important for social dogs or those with compromised immune systems.
Keeping Your Dog’s Immunity Strong Over Time
Vaccines aren’t a one-time event. Most require periodic booster shots to maintain your dog’s immunity over time. During your visits, we’ll assess your dog’s needs and help you stay on track with their schedule. Our goal is to keep your pet protected without giving unnecessary boosters. If you’re ever unsure whether your dog is due, we’re just a call or message away.
We Also Provide Vaccine Plans for Puppies
Puppies have developing immune systems that need support to build strong protection against common diseases. That’s why vaccinations are given as a series, starting around 6 to 8 weeks of age and continuing every 3 to 4 weeks until your puppy is about 16 weeks old.
Getting your puppy started on vaccines at the right time not only helps prevent serious illnesses but also ensures they’re ready for daycare, training classes, or puppy playgroups. Schedule an appointment with us—our caring veterinary team will guide you through every step, send timely booster reminders, and help keep your puppy protected during this critical stage of growth.
Book Your Dog or Puppy’s Vaccination Appointment
Whether you’re just starting with puppy shots or keeping your adult dog up to date, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Appointments are flexible, and mobile visits are available if you need extra convenience. Let’s work together to keep your dog happy, healthy, and protected.
Dog Vaccinations FAQs
Are vaccines safe for dogs?
Dog vaccines are carefully tested to ensure safety and are widely used in veterinary medicine. Most dogs experience little to no discomfort, with only mild and temporary side effects like sleepiness or minor tenderness near the injection site. Your veterinarian will always make sure your dog is healthy enough for vaccination and monitor them throughout the visit.
Can I skip lifestyle vaccines if my dog stays indoors?
If your dog rarely interacts with other animals or goes outside, lifestyle vaccines may not be necessary. However, even indoor dogs can be exposed to certain risks. We’ll help you decide what makes sense.
How much do dog vaccinations cost?
The cost depends on which vaccines your dog needs. After a brief consultation or wellness exam, we’ll provide a personalized vaccine plan and a clear estimate with no surprises.
When should my puppy start getting vaccinated?
Most puppies begin their vaccination series around 6 to 8 weeks of age. They’ll continue receiving vaccines every few weeks until about 16 weeks old to build strong, lasting immunity.
How often do dogs need the rabies vaccine?
In Alberta, the rabies vaccine is typically given at 12 to 16 weeks of age, then boosted after one year. After that, most dogs only need it every three years, depending on local laws and vaccine type.
What is a DHPP vaccination for dogs?
DHPP is a combination vaccine that protects against distemper, hepatitis (adenovirus), parvovirus, and parainfluenza. It’s often part of the core vaccine schedule, especially during puppyhood.
How do vets give vaccines to dogs?
Most dog vaccines are given by injection under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Some vaccines, like Bordetella, can also be given orally or as a nasal spray. Your vet will choose the method based on the type of vaccine and your dog’s comfort.
Will my dog need vaccines every year?
Some vaccines are given annually, while others last for three years or more. We’ll review your pet’s records at each visit and keep them on a schedule that makes sense for their age, health, and lifestyle.