Should I Inoculate My Dog?

The recent debates about human vaccine safety have left many pet owners wondering whether their dogs and cats should be vaccinated. The short answer is: Yes, definitely! Pets should receive core vaccines—those medically necessary for all pets—and may need others depending on their lifestyle.

Is it OK not to vaccinate your dog?

Dogs can live perfectly well without shots and it is the personal decision of the dog owner as to whether to get the dog inoculated or not. However, if you do decide not to have your dog inoculated you may be putting it at increased risk of contracting certain conditions that could, in effect, pose a risk to its life.

What happens if I don't vaccinate my dog?

Vaccination against distemper and parvovirus is important because these diseases can be deadly. "Because transmission does not require direct contact with another dog, indoor-only dogs can be exposed and become ill if they are not appropriately vaccinated."