Can Vaccines harm my French bulldog puppy, Should I vaccinate her? 💉

To Vaccinate or Not to Vaccinate My Bulldog ❓

➡️ Do bulldogs benefit from vaccines? 

➡️ Which vaccines are necessary?

➡️ How often and at what age?

➡️ How many boosters? 

➡️ Can I give them on my own?

➡️ What are the risks? 

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Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer; it must be customized to each individual based on the

• Age: bulldog's age
• Lifestyle: outdoors, travel, boarding, etc.
• Location: geographic location
• Physical Health:  immune competence can be affected by certain diseases and illnesses, which may require a reassessment of vaccination decisions.
•  Titer Levels: based of blood test

BULLDOG VACCINATION AND AGE

Your bulldog's age and vaccination history influence the development of their immune system and the ability to produce sufficient antibodies against the targeted diseases.

Dr. Kraemer, do bulldog puppies, adults, and seniors require the same vaccines❓

BULLDOG PUPPIES VACCINATION:

For the first few weeks after birth, French bulldog puppies receive passive immunity from their mother’s milk. The milk, especially in the first days (colostrum), is rich in immunity cells and offers essential protection.

However, as maternal antibodies diminish after a few weeks, puppies become vulnerable to viral infections. At this stage, active immunity through vaccination is critical.

Core vaccines are typically given in a series of 2-4 boosters every 2-4 weeks until the puppy develops a proficient immune response.

Non-core vaccines are usually not required unless specific risks are identified.

Always ask your vet to explain why a non-core vaccine is recommended.

BULLDOG ADULTS & SENIORS: 

Once your bulldog reaches immune maturity, core vaccine boosters are generally required only annually or every three years, depending on the vaccine manufacturer and vaccine type.

Dr. Kraemer, Are There Bulldogs That Should Not Be Vaccinated❓

There are specific cases where vaccines are not recommended

🚨Autoimmune Disease: Bulldogs suffering from autoimmune or immune-mediated diseases.

Other reasons to delay or discuss vaccine merits with your vet include:

1. Pregnant bulldogs
2. Active Infection: Bulldogs with active infections
3. Disease & Cancer: illnesses or severe underlying conditions (e.g., cancer)
4. Immune Suppressed
5. Vaccines Adverse Reaction: Bulldogs with a history of severe vaccine reactions

BULLDOG CORE VACCINES versa NON-CORE

A few essential core vaccines are considered front-line protection. These are typically administered in a single shot as DHP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus) or DHPP (which also includes Parainfluenza).

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Core Vaccines (recommended for all bulldogs):

Rabies:  Required by law

• First dose at 4 months of age
• A booster 1 year later
• Subsequent boosters every 3 years

DHP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus) or DHPP (includes Parainfluenza):

• Start at 6-8 weeks of age
• 2-3 boosters every 3 weeks
• A booster 1 year later
• Thereafter, every 3 years (depending on the manufacturer)

Core vaccines are often bundled into a single shot, except for Rabies, which is given separately.

Dr. Kraemer, are non-core bulldog vaccines necessary❓

Non-core vaccines are sometimes recommended based on lifestyle, location, and exposure risks.

1. Leptospirosis: Bacteria transmitted via contaminated water
2. Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Often required for boarding and grooming
3. Canine Influenza (Dog Flu): For dogs in high-exposure environments
4. Lyme Disease: Protects against tick-borne illnesses, especially in tick-heavy regions
5. Antivenom Vaccine: For areas with venomous snakes
6. Giardia Vaccines: giardia is a protozoa Parasite

🚨 Non-core vaccines are situational. Ensure your veterinarian explains the rationale behind their recommendation, as over-vaccination can increase risks.

BULLDOG VACCINE SIDE EFFECTS

Pet vaccine side effects can range from mild to severe. While severe reactions are rare, they may require emergency care.

Dr. Kraemer, can vaccines harm my French bulldog❓

MILD VACCINE REACTION

Most side effects are mild and short-lived; they are most commonly associated with

1. Fever (flue-like)
2. Soreness at the injection site
3. Swelling or small bumps at the injection site

MODERATE VACCINE REACTION

Rare, more severe allergic reactions include:

1. hives
2. facial swelling
3. vomiting

🆘 SEVERE VACCINE REACTION

Anaphylaxis (airway constriction, collapse, and shock)—an emergency requiring immediate veterinary care

🩺Vaccine Reaction Recording Tip:

If your bulldog has a vaccine reaction, ensure it is documented in their medical record. Subsequent vaccines could provoke a stronger reaction, so your vet may pre-treat with antihistamines or corticosteroids.

🩺Vaccine Booster Tip:

For core vaccines, I prefer the every 3 years schedule instead of annual boosters to reduce unnecessary exposure, particularly because bulldogs are prone to allergies and heightened sensitivities.

Are Vaccine Clinics and Mobile Vaccine Services Safe?

While low-cost clinics can save money, they carry potential risks and unknowns, such as:

1. Supplier and Transportation
2. Improper handling 
3. Improper storage and refrigeration 
4. Needle re-sterilization and reuse (pain due to dulling the needle and increasing infection risk)
5. Pre-drawn vaccines: might affect sterility and potency
6. Vaccine Reaction: If your bulldog reacts to vaccines given at a low-cost clinic, the perceived "savings" can quickly turn into expensive emergency care. In contrast, your veterinarian, who knows your dog's history, can provide a considerate, prompt, and cost-effective response.

Is it safe to self-administer vaccines?

Self-administration may seem convenient and cost-effective, but it is not recommended. Risks include:

1. Unknown vendor
2. Improper transportation
3. Improper handling and refrigeration
4. Improper mixing
5. Improper administration
6. Administering vaccines at the wrong site
7. Potential for injury  (e.g., bites)
8. Difficulty storing and disposing of needles safely
9. Additionally, many grooming, boarding, and travel facilities do not accept vaccines that were administered at home.

Should I Vaccinate My French Bulldog Puppy? Key Takeaways:

➡️Core vs. Non-Core vaccines: Core vaccines are essential; non-core vaccines should be carefully considered based on your bulldog's lifestyle and location.

➡️ Annual vs. Every-3-Year Boosters: Bulldogs are sensitive, so I recommend avoiding annual boosters when possible.

A titer blood test can measure your dog’s immunity and help determine if a vaccine can be skipped.

➡️ Side effects: Mild side effects are more common; severe reactions are rare but require immediate veterinary care and should be discussed before future vaccination.

➡️ Low-Cost Clinics & Home Vaccination: While tempting, these options can compromise safety and end up costing more in the long run.

➡️ Community Immunity: Vaccination works best when most pets are protected, reducing the spread of dangerous diseases like Parvovirus and Distemper, which are both deadly and expensive to treat.

BULLDOG VACCINATION RISK~REWARD FINAL THOUGHTS

🩺 While vaccination decisions can feel overwhelming, the key is balance. Work closely with a trusted veterinarian to create a customized vaccine plan that ensures your bulldog stays healthy while minimizing risks.

🩺 Prevention is always better (and less costly) than treatment, especially for highly contagious and life-threatening diseases.

🩺 Vaccinations are most effective when your bulldog’s immune system is at its best. Maintaining a healthy immune system requires preventive care

1. Balanced nutrition with appropriate supplements
2. Stress-free environment
3. Love and care of attentive owners

💌Happy Holidays

Warm regards,
🩺Dr. Kraemer, Vet4Bulldog

~Trusted by Vets ~Recommended by Owners ~Loved by Bulldogs