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Your Dogs Vaccinations

Best By Farr • August 1, 2024

Vaccinations play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of your dog. They prepare your dog's immune system to fight off infections should they come into contact with various diseases. Here's an overview of why vaccinations are essential, which ones your dog needs, and the schedule you should follow.

Importance of Dog Vaccines

Vaccines work by introducing modified bacteria or viruses that do not cause disease but instead train your dog’s immune system to recognize and combat these pathogens effectively. While not every vaccine guarantees complete prevention of a disease, they significantly lessen the severity and can save lives by preventing conditions that are often deadly and highly contagious.

Core Vaccinations Every Dog Needs

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) recommends several core vaccines for all dogs regardless of their lifestyle. These include:

Canine Parvovirus: A severe virus causing gastrointestinal issues; highly contagious and persistent in the environment.
Canine Distemper: Affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems and can be fatal, especially in puppies.
Hepatitis: Targets the liver and other major organs; spread through bodily fluids like urine and saliva.
Rabies: A fatal viral disease affecting the nervous system; vaccination is legally required in many places due to the danger to humans and other animals.

Non-Core Vaccinations

These vaccines are administered based on a dog's risk of exposure, which can depend on geographic location, lifestyle, and overall health. Non-core vaccines include:

Bordetella Bronchiseptica: Known for causing kennel cough, highly recommended for dogs that frequent kennels or social settings.
Canine Influenza: For dogs in high-density environments like shelters or boarding facilities.
Leptospirosis: A bacterial disease spread through wildlife urine, recommended for dogs with a lot of outdoor exposure.
Lyme Disease: Transmitted via ticks, particularly in wooded or grassy areas prevalent in the Midwestern and Northeastern U.S.

Vaccination Schedule

Puppies should start receiving vaccines at about eight weeks old, with boosters every three to four weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. This schedule helps them build immunity as the natural protection from their mother's milk wanes. Adult dogs might need boosters every year or three years, depending on the vaccine type and the dog’s overall health status.

Managing Vaccine Side Effects

While most dogs handle vaccinations well, some may experience mild side effects like soreness at the injection site or temporary lethargy. Severe reactions are rare but require immediate veterinary care.

Conclusion

Vaccinations are a critical part of your dog’s health regimen. They not only protect your pet but also contribute to the broader community's health by preventing the spread of serious diseases. Always discuss with your vet to tailor a vaccination plan that suits your dog’s specific needs, ensuring they lead a long, healthy life.

Remember, keeping your dog vaccinated is a key responsibility as a pet owner. It’s not just about adhering to legal requirements—it’s about providing the best care for your furry friend and safeguarding the community against preventable diseases.

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What are the Pet Policies for the Top US Airlines?

By Best By Farr • January 15, 2025

Embarking on a journey with your furry companion involves navigating the pet policies of various U.S. airlines. With recent adjustments to ensure safer and less stressful travels, understanding these guidelines is crucial. Here’s a rundown of the pet policies of major U.S. airlines and some tips for a smooth trip. AVMA and USDA Pet Travel Tips Before you fly: Ensure your pet is healthy with a vet check-up. Acclimate your pet to their travel crate. Opt for cabin travel over cargo when possible. Choose flight times that are temperature-appropriate. Prepare all necessary documents and health certificates well in advance. Airline-Specific Pet Policies Alaska Airlines Requires reservations for pets, with fees starting at $75. Pets can travel in the cabin or the baggage area. Short-nosed breeds have restrictions, especially in cargo. Health and vaccination requirements must be up-to-date. JetBlue Offers the JetPaws program, rewarding pet travel with extra points. Charges $125 each way for pets. Limits pets to one per passenger, with carrier weight limits. Pets must stay in their carrier throughout the flight. Delta Airlines Charges $125 for in-cabin pet travel. Has breed restrictions and specific kennel requirements. Pets must remain in their kennel under the seat during the flight. Hawaiian Airlines Charges range from $60 for inter-island flights to $225 for North American flights. Limits the number of pets and imposes strict carrier inspections. Requires advance reservations and health documentation. Southwest Airlines Allows up to six pet carriers per flight, on a first-come, first-served basis. Charges a fee and requires pets to travel with their owners. Pets must remain in carriers under the seat during the flight. General Tips for Flying with Pets Book direct flights to minimize stress and handling. Fly during less busy times for easier management. Arrive early to allow for extra check-in time. Consider your pet's feeding and exercise schedule. Navigating airline pet policies requires preparation and understanding of each airline's specific rules. By planning ahead and adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience for you and your pet. For the most accurate and detailed information, always check the airline's official website or contact their customer service directly before booking your flight.

January is National Train Your Dog Month

By Best By Farr • January 1, 2025

January is the perfect time to enhance the bond with your canine companion as it marks National Train Your Dog Month. This annual event encourages dog owners to explore the benefits of training, helping to dispel the myth that old dogs can't learn new tricks. Here’s why embracing training this January can be incredibly rewarding for both you and your pet: The Benefits of Dog Training Life-saving Skills: Training your dog goes beyond basic obedience; it can be lifesaving. Commands like "stay," "come," or "leave it" are essential for preventing dangerous situations. A well-trained dog is more responsive, making it easier to manage them in potentially hazardous circumstances. Strengthening Bonds: Training is an excellent way for you and your dog to understand each other better. It enhances communication and builds trust, making your relationship stronger. Through consistent training, using positive reinforcement methods, you can increase mutual respect and affection. Improved Socialization: Well-mannered dogs are more welcome in public spaces and social situations. Training your dog to behave around other animals and people can make outings more enjoyable and less stressful. This includes everything from visits to the vet to interactions at dog parks. Securing a Forever Home: Proper training can significantly reduce behavioral problems, which are often cited as reasons for dogs being relinquished to shelters. By investing time in training, you're more likely to enjoy a harmonious life with your pet, ensuring they remain a beloved part of your family for life. Tips for Successful Training Start Simple: Begin with basic commands like sit, stay, and come. These foundational skills form the building blocks for more advanced training. Be Consistent: Consistency is key in training. Ensure all family members use the same commands and rewards to avoid confusing your dog. Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats, praise, or playtime when they perform correctly. This reinforces their good behavior and makes learning enjoyable. Keep Sessions Short: Dogs have short attention spans. Keep training sessions brief but frequent to maintain their focus and interest. Seek Professional Help: If you’re new to dog training or facing challenging behaviors, consider enrolling in a training class or hiring a professional dog trainer for guidance. Reach out to Best By Farr Dog Training to learn more about our training programs. By dedicating time to train your dog this January, you're setting the stage for a year filled with fun, bonding, and mutual respect. Celebrate National Train Your Dog Month by embracing these practices and enjoy the rewarding journey of training your furry friend.

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