Which vaccines does your dog actually need?

Every dog in Kentucky needs two vaccines: rabies, which the law requires, and DHPP, which covers distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and parainfluenza. Everything else is a conversation about your dog’s life.

Core: rabies and DHPP

Puppies get DHPP every three to four weeks until about sixteen weeks, then a booster a year later. After that, DHPP is given every three years and rabies every one or three years, depending on the vaccine. These two protect against diseases that are common, deadly or both.

Bordetella, if your dog meets other dogs

Kennel cough spreads where dogs gather: boarding, daycare, grooming and dog parks. Most boarding kennels require it. If your dog walks the neighborhood and sleeps at home, it is optional.

Leptospirosis, if your dog drinks from puddles

Lepto is a bacterial disease carried in wildlife urine, and it shows up around Louisville after wet weather. Dogs that hike, swim or drink from puddles and creeks should have it. It can also infect people.

Lyme, if your dog walks in ticks

Lyme is less common here than in the Northeast, but it is rising. For dogs that spend time in woods and tall grass we recommend it together with a monthly tick preventive, which matters more than the vaccine.

What we skip

We do not give vaccines a dog does not need. If your dog is older, sick or has had a reaction before, we space them out or leave some off and explain why.

Bring your dog’s vaccine records to the next visit and we will tell you exactly what is due and what is optional.