I think it is best to get a recommendation from your vet about which boosters your dog needs. Some areas are more prone to certain problems than others. For instance, we decided to forgo the Leptospirosis vaccine as it is not prevalent and I had read it has some risks. There has been a lot of controversy over vaccine schedules in the last few years. Some vets are suggesting longer intervals between shots. Annual boosters are not always needed.
Rabies is almost always required. After the first one, you can choose to get the 3 year rabies vaccine. There is usually a combo shot that includes some combination of distemper, hepatitis, adenovirus, paravirus and parvo. You may also want to get the giardia, corona, leptospirosis, and bordetella depending on vet recommendations. Some areas even suggest the lyme disease vaccine.
As to heartguard -- yes, you need to provide some protection against heart worms for life. I use Heartguard Plus in pill form. Many use Sentinel or Interceptor and some use Revolution. My vet will not prescribe Revolution for dogs as it does not protect against canine intestinal worms. I will probably go to Sentinel or Interceptor when I need to replenish my supply as they afford the extra protection against whip worms. So, talk that choice over with your vet. |