Canine Periodontal Disease Vaccine

The bacteria that cause canine periodontal disease threaten a dog's life even as they attack teeth and bones, according to the Mar Vista Animal Medical Center. Fortunately, a vaccine from Pfizer called Porphyromonas vaccine guards against most of this bacteria.

  1. Target of Vaccine

    • Porphyromonas vaccine works against the three strains of bacteria that lead to most cases of canine periodontal disease. P. denticanis, P. salivosa and P. gulae can all lead to bone loss and other dental problems, afflicting up to 85 percent of the dog population.

    Suggested Use

    • Porphyromonas vaccine protects dogs that currently enjoy good health with no symptoms of periodontal disease. Canine Practice states that dogs should have clean and healthy teeth before receiving the vaccine. Veterinarians can begin administering the vaccine when the dog reaches seven weeks of age, allowing three weeks between the two required doses.

    Considerations

    • Although prevention of periodontal disease can give dogs a longer and healthier life, the Porphyromonas vaccine still requires further testing before veterinarians can know how long it wards off bacteria. The Mar Vista Animal Medical Center adds that pet owners should still maintain their dog's dental health through brushing, diet and other practices as well.