Can a dog survive without vaccines?

Yes, a dog can survive without vaccines, but it is not recommended. Vaccines are mainly used to prevent infectious diseases transmitted between dogs, such as parvovirus, coronavirus, and distemper virus. Once a dog contracts an infectious disease, it may face life-threatening risks and expensive treatment costs. Therefore, for the health of the dog, it is recommended that owners start vaccinating their dogs around three months of age. Until the dog has completed the vaccination process, it is best not to take it outside to play.

Harm of not getting vaccinated

Dogs that do not get vaccinated are more susceptible to various diseases, especially young dogs with poor immune systems. Once they come into contact with bacteria or viruses, they will inevitably get infected. Moreover, after a dog gets vaccinated, it can also prevent some common dog diseases such as distemper, parvovirus, infectious hepatitis, bronchitis, parainfluenza, and coronavirus.

How many vaccines should be administered?

Usually, a dog should receive two types of vaccines: the first one is a vaccine to prevent infectious diseases, and the second one is a rabies vaccine. However, some young dogs are too young to wait for the appropriate time to vaccinate, and their owners may inject a double vaccine at the first visit. Later, the dog may receive three additional shots, which would include the rabies vaccine, making a total of three vaccines.

Points to note during the vaccination period

There are several aspects to consider when a dog is vaccinated:

The dog should be in a healthy condition before receiving the vaccine, without symptoms such as coughing, vomiting, and sneezing.
The dog's temperature should be within the normal range, between 38.0 and 39.5 degrees Celsius.
After receiving the vaccine, the dog should be observed at the veterinary hospital for about 20 minutes to ensure there are no allergic reactions before leaving.