Vaccinations for Dogs
Vaccinations are a very important part in keeping your dog safe and healthy, especially in Hong Kong where infectious disease in unvaccinated pets is common. Vaccination is very safe and side effects are extremely rare.
There are a number different vaccinations for dogs. Different pets have different vaccination requirements, and not all vaccinations are required for all animals.
The standard vaccinations for dogs include:
G6 (or DHPPiL) Vaccination
The G6 vaccination is the most important vaccination and should be given annually to all dogs, even if they only live indoors. The G6 vaccinations covers some of the most serious preventable diseases affecting dogs – Distemper, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, basic Leptospirosis and Infectious Hepatitis.
This vaccine is given to puppies at 8 weeks, 12 weeks and 16 weeks old and then yearly for life. Note that some countries have changed to a three-yearly G6 vaccination, but unfortunately due to the high levels of Parvovirus and Distemper in Hong Kong we recommend a yearly vaccination.
Leptospirosis Vaccination
Leptospirosis has become an increasing problem on Hong Kong Island and the New Territories, especially around Po Shan Rd / Conduit Rd on the Island and Clearwater Bay. Infection results in an often fatal damage to the kidneys and liver, and once a dog has developed clinical disease successful treatment is very difficult. The Leptospirosis vaccination is an advanced multivalent vaccination that covers against many more forms of the disease that the basic G6 booster.
It is necessary for dogs who do lots of hiking or playing in parkland or bushy areas, but not for dogs who only live indoors. This vaccine is given yearly.
Rabies Vaccination
Rabies vaccination is required by law for all dogs in Hong Kong.
By government regulation, it must be given to puppies before they are 5 months of age, and then given again every 3 years. A microchip and dog license is also issued for your dog at the time of rabies vaccination.
If your dog is travelling overseas there may be other rabies vaccination requirements, please contact us for further information.
Kennel Cough (Bordetella) Vaccination
Kennel Cough (Bordetella) is often required for dogs going to dog shows or boarding kennels, or dogs who often mix or play with other dogs. It is not generally given to dogs who have live indoors or have little contact with other dogs. This vaccine is given yearly.
Proheart Injection
The Proheart injection, although not strictly a vaccination, is a preventative injection for Heartworm Disease, a potentially fatal infection spread by mosquitos. It is given yearly and is important for all dogs, even those who live indoors.