Dog vaccinations are vital to protect your pet from serious, infectious diseases like parvovirus, distemper, adenovirus, and kennel cough (also called canine cough). Even in Melbourne, these illnesses can lurk in parks, boarding facilities, or on other dogs. At Mornington Veterinary Clinic, we believe in proactive care—vaccinating your dog safeguards your dog's health, helps create herd immunity, and reduces disease spread in the community.
Vaccines contain weakened forms of viruses, and when injected, they stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies. Antibodies are the body's little protective soldiers which play an important role in fighting infections. By vaccinating your pet, you ensure your pet has a better chance at recognising and fighting these viruses should they be exposed.
What vaccinations does a dog need?
In Australia, dogs are typically vaccinated against several core diseases including:
- Canine Parvovirus - A highly contagious virus that causes severe gastrointestinal illness and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
- Canine Distemper Virus - A viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems, often leading to severe illness or death.
- Canine Hepatitis (Adenovirus) - A virus that causes liver damage and can lead to acute illness or death.
- Kennel Cough (Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis) - A highly infectious respiratory tract infection which results in a dry hacking cough.
How often do I have my dog vaccinated?
In Australia, the typical vaccination schedule for puppies begins at 6-8 weeks and ensures they are protected against serious diseases as their immune system is still developing.
6-8 weeks of age:
First vaccination: This typically includes protection against Canine Parvovirus, Canine Distemper, and Canine Hepatitis (Adenovirus). This is often referred to as the "C3" vaccination.
10-12 weeks of age:
Second vaccination: This is usually a booster shot of the C3 vaccination (Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis).
At this point, puppies will also receive the Canine Cough vaccine (Bordetella and parainfluenza) which will be combined with the C3 to create the “C5” vaccination.
14-16 weeks of age:
o Third vaccination: A final booster of the C5 vaccines to ensure full immunity.
16 months of age:
o First annual booster: After the initial vaccinations, puppies receive their first annual booster of the C5 vaccine.
Following this, annual vaccinations include the kennel cough component, with the C3 component being a triennial (every 3 years) vaccination.
Common questions about dog vaccinations
Can dogs get ill after vaccinations?
Similar to humans, dogs can have mild, short-lived reactions after being given a vaccination (usually within 48 hours) Fatigue, reduced appetite, slight fever, or injection-site swelling for 1–2 days can occur and we ask that you contact us if you see any of these symptoms. Serious reactions like vomiting and diarrhoea are thankfully rare.
Facial swelling or difficulty breathing can be indicative of an allergic reaction and we ask that you bring your pet back to us straight away for treatment - most likely an anti-histamine injection. If a pet has any type of reaction to a vaccination, this will be noted on their history and extra consideration and care will be given to your pet for vaccinations in the future.
What not to do after a dog vaccine?
After your dog receives a vaccine, their body will be working hard to produce antibodies against the virus they've been exposed to so it's important to minimise any additional stress.
- Ensure your dog has somewhere quiet and familiar to rest, if that is what they need. Each pet will be different.
- Avoid any strenuous activity, travel, or major changes (e.g. moving house, diet change) for at least 48 hours.
- Book any grooming appointments for at least three days after their vaccination appointment.
- Monitor them closely for any of the post-vaccine reactions listed above. If you're unsure, contact the Mornington Vet Clinic for guidance and support.
At what age do you stop vaccinating your dog?
You don't stop completely. Frequency reduces after the initial juvenile series, but dogs require booster doses every 1 to 3 years throughout their life. Booster frequency (as detailed above) depends on your dog’s age, health, and lifestyle and even senior dogs benefit from tailored boosters to maintain immunity. Mornington Veterinary Clinic creates customised vaccine plans for your dog’s lifelong protection.
Do dogs really need annual vaccinations?
Yes, in most cases. While some vaccines may provide multi-year protection, annual health checks often coincide with vaccinations to monitor overall wellbeing. It's important to note that most dog kennels and training/socialising facilities will require dogs to be up to date with the vaccination schedule detailed above.
What happens if I miss my dog's annual vaccination?
Missing a vaccine means your dog’s protection may lapse, which can leave them vulnerable to disease. At Mornington Veterinary Clinic, we may restart or adjust your pet's vaccination schedule to ensure continued immunity, depending on your pet's needs and individual circumstances.
How much does it cost to vaccinate a dog in Mornington?
The cost to vaccinate a dog in Mornington can vary depending on whether your dog is a young puppy or an adult, as well as what vaccinations they are due for. Currently, our vaccinations range from $125 to $140, which also includes your pet's health check.
