Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Should I vaccinate my dog? Are all dog vaccines truly necessary?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Bully | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 26 days old | 66 lbs

I need some opinions, please. It may be criticized but I would love to know. To vaccinate or not to vaccinate?. I do know rabies is a mandatory vaccine so I would do that but what about the other vaccines?. I read a few articles from owners stating how their dogs were a lot healthier because they did not vaccinate their dogs and they noticed a difference. Would this come down to the area that one would live in?. So it made me question whether I should or not?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 19th, 2017

Great question! Definitely definitely vaccinate. The articles you have read are an owner's opinion, and not based on any scientific evidence. The scientific evidence shows that vaccinated dogs are much healthier than dogs who are not vaccinated. This is because it keeps them from developing deadly diseases such as parvovirus, distemper, and rabies. None of these have cures, rabies is always fatal, while parvo and distemper are highly fatal. The truth is that vaccine reactions are rare, and benefits of vaccinating your dog and protecting them from deadly diseases that will cause them to suffer far outweighs anything else. A puppy or dog suffering from parvo is a ghastly sight, and it hurts my heart when I see a dog suffering from this when it could have been prevented by a vaccine. Your dog's health is so important, and that's why you should vaccinate. In my opinion, as well as 99% of veterinarians, vaccination should be done. I hope this helps answer your question :-)
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button