Here's why:
* Disease Prevention: Vaccinations work by introducing a weakened or inactive form of a virus or bacteria into the dog's body. This triggers the immune system to develop antibodies against the specific disease, providing protection if they are exposed to it in the future.
* Contagious Diseases: Many diseases dogs can get are highly contagious, and some can be fatal. These include:
* Rabies: A deadly viral disease that affects the central nervous system. It's transmitted through bites from infected animals.
* Distemper: A highly contagious viral disease that can cause respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological problems.
* Parvovirus: A highly contagious viral disease that affects the intestines and can be fatal, especially in puppies.
* Canine Adenovirus (CAV): A viral disease that can cause respiratory problems, hepatitis, and other health issues.
* Bordetella bronchiseptica: A bacterial infection that causes kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease.
* Public Health: Vaccinating dogs helps protect not only individual animals but also the entire community. This is especially important for rabies, which can be transmitted from animals to humans.
Important Note: Vaccination schedules and specific vaccines recommended for your dog will vary depending on their age, lifestyle, and location. It's crucial to discuss with your veterinarian the appropriate vaccination plan for your dog.