Vaccination Recommendations for Older Dogs: Puppy vaccinations are very important, but even mature dogs have a lot of valuable protection to gain from routine vaccinations. Common and serious diseases such as rabies and distemper need to be prevented.
After a puppy’s initial round of vaccinations up to 16 weeks of age, the traditional immunization-visit interval for dogs is once yearly (either for actual vaccinations or just to check to make sure the titer is at the right level). However, we agree with the American Veterinary Medical Association recommendation that veterinarians should customize vaccination schedules to their patient’s needs. These vaccination programs may change from pet to pet based on their lifestyle, such as how much exposure they will have to other dogs and wildlife.
Senior dogs may no longer need certain or any vaccinations. Each dog and situation is different. It is important that you discuss the pros and cons of vaccinations for your older pet with a veterinarian.
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