Mary Allen
Introduction
Berger Picards, also known as Picardy Shepherds, are an energetic and intelligent breed of dogs with a strong herding instinct. As with all dogs, vaccinations are an important aspect of their overall health and well-being. Vaccines help prevent a wide range of illnesses and diseases, reducing the chances of your furry friend getting sick.
Core Vaccinations
Core vaccinations are essential for all dogs and are typically administered during puppyhood. These vaccines protect against highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases, such as distemper, parvovirus, and rabies. Berger Picards should receive a series of vaccinations for distemper and parvovirus, which are usually given together in a single shot. These vaccines should be administered at 6, 9, 12, and 15 weeks of age, with a booster shot given at one year of age, and then every three years thereafter.
Non-Core Vaccinations
Non-core vaccinations are optional and depend on your dog’s lifestyle and risk factors. These vaccinations protect against less common diseases, such as Bordetella, Leptospirosis, and Lyme disease. If your Berger Picard spends a lot of time in parks or wooded areas, the Lyme disease vaccine may be recommended. Similarly, if your dog frequently interacts with other dogs, the Bordetella vaccine may be recommended to protect against kennel cough.
Rabies Vaccine
The rabies vaccine is crucial for all dogs and is also required by law in most states. Rabies is a fatal disease that can be transmitted to humans, so it’s important to ensure that your Berger Picard is up-to-date with their rabies vaccination. The initial rabies vaccination is typically given at 12-16 weeks of age, with a booster shot given at one year of age, and then every three years thereafter.
Lyme Disease Vaccine
Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness that can cause joint pain, fever, and fatigue. To protect against Lyme disease, a vaccine is available for dogs. The Lyme disease vaccine is typically given to dogs that live in areas with high tick populations or those that frequently spend time in wooded areas. It’s important to talk to your veterinarian to determine if this vaccination is necessary for your Berger Picard.
Dog Flu Vaccine
Canine influenza, also known as dog flu, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can cause fever, coughing, and runny nose. The dog flu vaccine is available for dogs and is recommended for those that frequently interact with other dogs, such as those that attend daycare or dog parks. If your Berger Picard is at risk for exposure to the dog flu, talk to your veterinarian about getting them vaccinated.
Vaccination Schedule
The vaccination schedule for Berger Picards will vary depending on their age, health, and lifestyle. It’s important to follow your veterinarian’s recommended schedule to ensure that your dog is protected against a wide range of illnesses and diseases. Remember to keep track of your dog’s vaccinations and schedule their booster shots as needed.
Consultation with Vet
Before making any decisions about vaccinations for your Berger Picard, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. They can help you determine which vaccinations are necessary based on your dog’s lifestyle and risk factors. Your veterinarian can also provide you with information about any potential side effects and answer any questions you may have. By working with your veterinarian, you can help keep your Berger Picard happy and healthy for years to come.