Do dogs need a booster shot after getting a cold after vaccination?

After a dog gets a cold following vaccination, you can check its antibody levels. If the antibody levels are not good, a booster shot can be given to strengthen the immune system. Puppies under six months old can have their blood tested for antibody levels 21 days after the third vaccine injection. Normal antibody levels should be above average to be considered resistant to the disease. Therefore, if the antibody levels are not in the middle or above range, a booster shot is necessary.

Impact of Vaccinating While Sick

Since many vaccines are weakened vaccines, if an animal has health problems, the weakened vaccine may infect the animal, putting it at unnecessary risk. Vaccines should be injected 7 to 10 days after the disease has healed, and never hide the pet's illness to get it vaccinated.

Why Get Vaccinated

Considering the safety of the owner and others, it is necessary to vaccinate dogs. Rabies is a deadly zoonotic disease caused by the rabies virus. There is currently no effective treatment for rabies, and the mortality rate for both humans and animals infected with rabies is nearly 100%. After weaning, a dog's maternal antibodies will disappear. If the dog is taken outside and comes into contact with dogs carrying pathogens, it may become infected with diseases such as parvovirus and distemper. Therefore, it is essential to vaccinate dogs for their health and to boost their immunity annually.

Vaccination Precautions

Before injecting the vaccine, take the dog to a pet hospital for a checkup to ensure that it is healthy and free of viral, bacterial infections, or other diseases such as wounds. Do not bathe the dog for three days after vaccination to avoid catching a cold. Dogs cannot be vaccinated during pregnancy or immediately after giving birth due to their low resistance.