Understanding Vaccinations

Health & Well Being
Understanding Vaccinations

Most pet owners know that they need to get their dogs vaccinated to help prevent them contracting common ‘doggy diseases’ some of which can be fatal, especially in younger animals.

The greyhound industry requires all greyhounds be vaccinated – both at the time of litter registration (puppy vaccination), and at the time of naming which is usually around 12-18 months of age. The aim of this requirement is to ensure that the ‘greyhound population’, as a whole, maintains an adequate level of immunity to help prevent the spread of disease.
Since vaccinations for dogs became available in the 1950’s owners have been educated that all dogs should receive an annual health check and vaccination.

As our understanding of immunity has increased and the vaccines available become better, it has become apparent that many adult dogs develop immunity that lasts longer than a year, and it may not be necessary to vaccinate dogs annually.

There are now a variety of dog diseases for which there is a vaccine available:
•    Canine parvo-virus – the number one killer of young puppies
•    Canine adeno-virus – the cause of canine infectious hepatitis
•    Canine distemper virus – historically a big killer of dogs with nasty side effects in those that survive
•    Rabies – a disease not present in Australia due to strict quarantine rules
•    Canine parainfluenza virus – one of the causes of canine (kennel) cough
•    Bordetella bronchiseptica – a bacterial cause of canine cough
•    Leptospira interrogans – cause of leptospirosis
•    Canine corona-virus

Generally, the first three diseases are considered the most dangerous, and so are the ones that it is recommended ALL puppies and dogs are vaccinated against.

Canine Cough is a problem in places where dogs congregate, so any dog that travels regularly, goes to the park with other dogs, goes into boarding kennels, attends training classes etc, is at risk of catching this disease. Places like boarding kennels in Victoria are required by law to ask for proof of vaccination against canine cough to prevent dogs from catching this disease.

Other diseases like leptospirosis, and coronavirus, tend to be a little more ‘regional’ – they are a problem in certain areas and in those areas it is strongly advised that dogs are vaccinated against them, but in other areas, they are not considered a problem. Your vet will be able to tell you if you are in a high risk area.

Rabies is an exotic disease, and the only dogs that would require vaccination against rabies would be those dogs who are travelling overseas. Rabies vaccine in Australia is tightly controlled, and only certain vets may administer it.

So what vaccination does my greyhound need?  And how often should it be vaccinated?

By the time most greyhounds leave GAP, they have already had their puppy vaccinations and had their first yearly booster. It is a requirement that greyhounds entering GAP are vaccinated to C5 – so they will have been vaccinated against parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis and the two causes of canine cough. You will receive a vaccination certificate in your greyhound’s paperwork.

Your vaccination certificate will have a date on it when the next vaccination is required, and that is the time to take your greyhound to the vet and discuss which vaccines your greyhound will need.  This will of course depend on the area in which you live, and on your vet’s recommendations.

These days, most vets recommend that all dogs receive a ‘yearly check-up’, but not all vaccines will be required each year.  In fact most vets now recommend that the core vaccines (the three killer diseases – Parvo, Distemper and Hepatitis) are only given every three years.  Other, ‘non-core’ diseases will vary from animal to animal, but Canine Cough vaccines are usually required every year to maintain protection. It is important that you discuss your dog’s vaccination program with your vet so you can decide the best course of action for your individual circumstances.

Your vet can best advise you on what is required for your individual circumstances, the area in which you live, and will discuss any potential side effects of vaccination with you.

Regardless of what you decide, it is important that your greyhound still has an annual health check with a veterinarian even if it is not scheduled for a vaccine. Annual checks can often detect problems before they become major health issues – in greyhounds checking their oral health is particularly important – so have a chat to your vet!

Meet our dogs ready for adoption

All greyhounds adopted from GAP are de-sexed, vaccinated, microchipped, wormed and health checked.

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Pisces

5 years old

Meet Pisces, a friendly mature aged chap who acts like an excitable puppy at times! Just like the characteristics of someone of the astrological star sign, Pisces, we believe Pisces is lives in a world of his own dreams and tend to be idealistic and optimistic. Pisces may suit living with or without a canine pal of similar size and children aged 10 years and older.
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Shifty

7 years old

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Meet Shifty, a 7-year-old boy who defies his age with his youthful energy and playful spirit. Don't let his mature years fool you - this lively lad is still a puppy at heart, always ready to burst into a zoomy or play with a toy. With his boundless enthusiasm and love for playtime, Shifty is the perfect companion for those who crave an active and entertaining furry friend. Despite his advancing years, Shifty shows no signs of slowing down. His tail still wags with excitement, and his eyes sparkle with mischief as he chases after toys or embarks on a high-speed zoom around the room. With his ageless personality and playful nature, Shifty is sure to bring joy and laughter into the life of his forever family. If you're looking for a fun-loving companion to keep you on your toes, Shifty is the perfect match! He may do best living as an only dog and a home with no children. He would prefer a backyard for his zoomies. He has successfully completed further training in our behavioural rehabilitation program and is now ready for adoption.
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Brick Tamland

6 years old

Meet Brick Tamland, a charming 6-year-old male brindle greyhound with a heart of gold. This handsome boy is polite, sweet, and friendly, with an affectionate nature that will win over anyone's heart. Brick loves people and enjoys being around his family, showering them with love and loyalty. Brick has sensitive eyes to bright lights with uneven pupils. He does not require any medication or treatment for his condition. Due to his gentle nature, Brick is best trialled on his own to ensure the best match. He may be suitable for families with children aged 10+ and could potentially get along with medium to large dogs. However, small dogs are not recommended. If you're looking for a calm and loving companion to join your family, Brick might be the perfect fit. He's a gentle soul looking for a forever home where he can receive the love and attention he deserves.
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Tremendous

5 years old

Meet Tremendous, the friendly and outgoing greyhound gentleman who's ready to bring joy and companionship into his new home! This charming boy has a big personality and loves to make new friends, both human and canine. Tremendous is a social and affectionate companion who will thrive in a family environment with plenty of love and attention. Tremendous is best suited to a home with kids aged 10+, who will appreciate his friendly nature and energetic spirit. He's looking for a household where he's the only dog or with a medium to large canine companion. Tremendous requires a home without small dogs or cats. With a loving family and a stable environment, Tremendous is sure to become a loyal and loving companion - if you're looking for a friendly and outgoing greyhound friend, Tremendous might be the perfect fit!
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Jeff Lebowski

3 years old

Jeff "The Dude" Lebowski is an adorable pooch, just look at that cute face! Jeff is a young boy who has lots to learn about life and even though he will be turning 4 this year, he still acts like a big puppy! He can find other breeds of dog (other than greyhounds) a little scary, but we feel with a patient owner who will help him by gradually introducing him to other breeds in the right way, he will realise that other breeds of dog are just as good as greyhounds (well almost ;) ). Jeff may suit living with or without another greyhound, children aged 10 years and older and we believe he will do best in a home with a backyard for him to run and play in.
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Hondo

6 years old

Handsome Hondo can't wait to find his forever home - is it with you? He's a confident and outgoing boy who can still get a bit excited when he meets new dogs, so he'd prefer a home with an experienced greyhound or sighthound owner. He would likely be ok with children aged ten or older, and should be fine with full time workers. Hondo has a heart murmur and comes with an approval for a follow up appointment for an echo, paid for by GAP.
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Coffee

4 years old

Meet Coffee, the big and bold greyhound gentleman who's brewing up a storm in the hearts of everyone he meets! This charming boy is a true coffee connoisseur - he loves treats, attention, and affection, and he'll be your loyal companion as long as the goodies keep flowing. With his gentle giant personality, Coffee is a perfect fit for families with kids aged 10+, who will adore his playful and loving nature. As a big boy with a big personality, Coffee needs a home that can match his energy and enthusiasm. He's best suited to a household where he's the only dog or with medium to large canine companions who can keep up with his playful vibe. Coffee is looking for an active family who can provide him with plenty of exercise, attention, and treats - if you're ready to perk up your life with a loyal and loving companion, Coffee is the perfect brew for you! Coffee has Pannus, an auto immune disease, which is managed by daily eye drops
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Kaheem

6 years old

Look at Kaheem and his ears! Kaheem is a mature chap whose puppy years are far behind him. He is a sweet and gentle boy, who is easy to handle and good on the lead. He can be a bit unsure of new dogs, so keeping him away from small dogs rushing up to him would be ideal. Kaheem may suit living with or without a canine pal of similar size and children as young as 5 years due to his placid nature.
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Madelyn

3 years old

Meet Madelyn, the playful and affectionate greyhound who's looking for a forever home. This puppyish sweetheart loves to have fun, run around, and shower her people with love. With her excitable personality, Madelyn is sure to bring laughter and joy to her new family. Madelyn may be best suited to a home with kids aged 10+, who can keep up with her energetic and playful antics. She's looking for a household where she's the only dog or with a compatible canine companion. Due to her playful nature, Madelyn requires a home with a secure backyard where she can run around and play. No elderly individuals, please - Madelyn needs a home with people who can match her enthusiasm and energy. If you're looking for a lively and loving companion, Madelyn might be the perfect fit!
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Zack

4 years old

Meet Zack, the calm and personable greyhound gentleman who's looking for a loving home to call his own. This gentle boy has a friendly and outgoing personality, making him a great companion for families who want a loyal friend. Zack is a laid-back guy who loves to spend time with his people and enjoy the simple things in life. Zack is best suited to a home with kids aged 5+, who will appreciate his calm and gentle nature. He's looking for a household where he's the only dog or with a compatible canine companion. With a patient and loving family in a house with a yard, Zack is sure to thrive and become a beloved member of the family - if you're looking for a calm and personable greyhound friend, Zack might be the perfect fit.
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