Vaccination: The Shield Against Disease
Prevention is better than cure. Vaccines are the only defense against deadly viruses like Rabies, Parvo, and Distemper.
Why Vaccinate?
Vaccines train the immune system to fight specific diseases. In India's street environment, viral load is high, making vaccination critical for survival.
- Herd Immunity: Protects the entire community, not just the individual.
- Zoonotic Protection: Prevents diseases (like Rabies) that jump from animals to humans.
- Cost Effective: Treating Parvo can cost ₹15,000+. A vaccine costs ₹300-500.
For Dogs
The "Core" vaccines every dog needs, whether pet or street.
| Vaccine | Protects Against | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| 9-in-1 / 7-in-1 (DHPPiL) | Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvo, Parainfluenza, Leptospirosis |
1st Dose: 6-8 Weeks Booster: 3-4 weeks later Annual Repeat |
| Anti-Rabies (ARV) | Rabies (Fatal to all mammals) |
1st Dose: 12 Weeks (3 Months) Booster: 1 year later Annual Repeat |
| Kennel Cough | Bordetella (Respiratory infection) | Recommended for dogs in shelters/boarding |
The Parvo Threat
Canine Parvovirus is a highly contagious, deadly virus affecting puppies. Signs include bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy. Puppies MUST complete their vaccination course before going out for walks.
For Cats
| Vaccine | Protects Against | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Tricat (FVRCP) | Panleukopenia, Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus |
1st Dose: 8 Weeks Booster: 3-4 weeks later Annual Repeat |
| Anti-Rabies | Rabies |
1st Dose: 12 Weeks Annual Repeat |
Large Animals (Cattle & Horses)
Often neglected, working animals are prone to outbreaks that devastate livelihoods.
Cattle & Buffalo
- FMD (Foot & Mouth Disease): Highly contagious. Bi-annual vaccination (Feb/Sep).
- HS (Hemorrhagic Septicemia): Fatal bacterial disease. Annual pre-monsoon shot.
- Lumpy Skin Disease: Viral disease causing skin nodules. Goat Pox vaccine is often used.
Horses & Donkeys
- Tetanus: Critical for working animals prone to wounds. Annual toxoid shot.
- Equine Influenza: Extremely contagious respiratory disease.
- Glanders: No vaccine exists. Testing and culling is the only control.
Understanding Rabies
Rabies is 100% fatal but 100% preventable. India accounts for 36% of the world's rabies deaths.