Basic Immunization

Basic immunization is the foundation for a healthy and operational life of a service dog. It not only protects the individual dog, but also the entire team and the population from dangerous infectious diseases. A carefully performed basic immunization is therefore essential for every dog deployed in a dog unit.

What is Basic Immunization?

Basic immunization is the first complete vaccination series administered to a puppy or young dog to build long-term protection against important infectious diseases. It consists of several vaccinations at fixed intervals that gradually train the dog's immune system and establish lasting protection.

Vaccination Schedule for Service Dogs

A structured vaccination schedule is essential for successful basic immunization. Service dogs require particularly comprehensive vaccination protection, as they are deployed in various environments and face an increased risk of infection.

Standard Vaccination Schedule

Additional Vaccinations for Service Dogs

Service dogs require additional vaccinations depending on their deployment area, which go beyond standard basic immunization:

• Bordetella bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough): Important for dogs working in groups or deployed in animal shelters
• Canine Herpesvirus: Particularly relevant for breeding dogs and dogs in larger groups
• Borrelia (Lyme Disease): Important for dogs deployed in forest areas or tick-infested regions
• Leishmaniasis: Required for dogs deployed in southern countries or the Mediterranean region

Timeline and Intervals

The correct intervals between vaccinations are crucial for the success of basic immunization. Intervals that are too short can impair the immune response, while intervals that are too long can cause gaps in protection.

Important Time Intervals

1. Between first and second vaccination: At least 3-4 weeks
2. Between second and third vaccination: At least 3-4 weeks
3. Between third vaccination and completion vaccination: 12 months
4. After completion vaccination: Annual booster

Special Considerations for Older Dogs

If an older dog with no known vaccination history is admitted to the dog unit, basic immunization must also be performed. In this case, the same intervals apply, regardless of the dog's age.

Vaccines and Active Ingredients

Modern vaccines are highly effective and safe. For service dogs, only approved vaccines that meet the highest quality standards are used.

Combination Vaccines

Most vaccinations are administered as combination vaccines that cover multiple pathogens simultaneously:

• DHPPi: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza
• DHPPiL: Additionally Leptospirosis
• DHPPiLR: Additionally Rabies

Single Vaccines

Single vaccines are used when:

• A specific booster is necessary
• Intolerances to combination vaccines exist
• Individual vaccination schedules are required

Implementation of Basic Immunization

Correct implementation of basic immunization requires careful planning and documentation. Each vaccination appointment must be precisely documented to be able to track the vaccination status at any time.

Preparation

Before each vaccination, the dog must be thoroughly examined:

• Health check: The dog must be completely healthy
• Temperature measurement: Fever is an exclusion criterion
• Parasite control: Worm infestation must be treated beforehand
• General condition: The dog must be fit and active

Vaccination Documentation

Every vaccination must be documented without gaps:

• Date of vaccination
• Type of vaccine
• Batch number
• Name of the vaccinating veterinarian
• Next vaccination appointment
• Dog's reactions

Frequently Asked Questions about Basic Immunization

When should basic immunization begin?

Basic immunization should ideally begin in the 8th week of life. For dogs that are admitted to the dog unit later, basic immunization begins immediately after admission.

What happens if a vaccination appointment is missed?

If a vaccination appointment is missed, a new appointment should be scheduled as soon as possible. Basic immunization does not need to be restarted from the beginning, but the intervals should be maintained.

Can vaccinations be combined?

Yes, modern combination vaccines make it possible to administer multiple vaccinations simultaneously. This reduces the number of veterinary visits and is less stressful for the dog.

How long does vaccination protection last after basic immunization?

After successful basic immunization, vaccination protection lasts for different periods depending on the vaccination. Most vaccinations must be boosted annually, while some vaccinations provide protection for several years.

Side Effects and Risks

As with all medical procedures, side effects can occur with vaccinations. However, these are usually mild and subside quickly.

Common Side Effects

• Local reactions: Swelling or redness at the injection site
• Fatigue: The dog may be tired after vaccination
• Mild fever: May occur in the first 24-48 hours
• Loss of appetite: May occur temporarily

Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reactions: Very rare, but possible
• Vaccination reactions: Overreaction of the immune system
• Vaccine failure: Vaccination protection does not occur

Special Considerations for Different Dog Breeds

Different dog breeds may react differently to vaccinations. This should be taken into account when planning basic immunization.

Breed-Specific Considerations

• German Shepherds: May be more sensitive to certain vaccines
• Belgian Shepherds: Often require the same vaccinations as German Shepherds
• Retrievers: Generally react very well to vaccinations
• Small breeds: Require the same dose as large breeds

Costs of Basic Immunization

Basic immunization is an investment in the health of the service dog. Costs vary depending on veterinarian, region, and type of vaccines.

Legal Aspects

Service dogs are subject to special legal regulations regarding vaccinations. These must be strictly observed.

Mandatory Vaccination for Service Dogs

• Rabies vaccination: Legally required for all dogs
• Documentation requirement: All vaccinations must be documented
• Proof requirement: The vaccination certificate must be available for inspections

Insurance Coverage

Many insurance companies require complete vaccination protection. Without basic immunization, insurance coverage may expire or not apply.

After Basic Immunization

After successful completion of basic immunization, the phase of regular booster vaccinations begins. These are just as important as basic immunization itself.

Booster Vaccinations

Booster vaccinations must be performed annually to maintain vaccination protection. Some vaccinations can also be boosted at longer intervals, but this should be discussed with the veterinarian.

Vaccination Certificate and Documentation

The vaccination certificate is an important document that must be available at all times. It contains all important information about the dog's vaccinations and is required for inspections, travel, or deployments.

Last updated: October 21, 2025