Our hospital has introduced a new vaccine that aids in the prevention of dental disease. If you think your dog may be a candidate for this vaccination or you have any questions not answered below, please give us a call during regular office hours.

Canine Porphyromonas (i.e. Periodontal) Vaccine

Periodontal disease ("periodontitis") is inflammation and infection of the gums and bone around your pet's teeth, eventually resulting in the loss of these teeth. It is the most common disease among dogs, affecting more than 8 out of 10 over 3 years of age! It is caused by bacteria that can live in the absence of oxygen (i.e., anaerobic) under plaque and tartar, and deep in diseased gum tissue and bone. Periodontitis is painful and we need to recognize that for our pets. Just because our pets will quietly tolerate pain doesn't mean they should have to.

Remarkably, after years of research along with laboratory and field trials, Pfizer Animal Health has created the first and only vaccine to aid in the prevention of canine periodontitis! By vaccinating against the three main types of anaerobic bacteria that cause periodontal disease, we can help prevent the pain and other negative health implications associated with chronic dental infection and tooth loss. The group of anaerobic bacteria responsible for most of the periodontal bone destruction are called Porphyromonas. The vaccine contains killed versions of Porphyromonas denticanis, Porphyromonas gulae, and Porphyromonas salivosa. Thus the name Canine Porphyromonas Vaccine.

These three types comprise approximately 75% of the bacterial population in the diseased gum pockets and are not normally found in the aerobic (i.e., oxygen-rich) environment of healthy gum tissue. It's important to remember that this vaccine is not a replacement for routine home care and regular prophylactic cleanings by your veterinary health care team. The importance of this routine preventative care cannot be overstated. Think of the Canine Porphyromonas Vaccine as one part of a complete dental care program for your dog.

How often will my dog be vaccinated?

Your dog will initially receive two doses of the Porphyromonas vaccine, given three weeks apart. It is currently recommended to booster this annually thereafter.

When is it safe to vaccinate my dog?

This vaccine can help dogs of all ages. Safety was demonstrated in dogs 7 weeks of age and older. Most puppies will be vaccinated toward the end of their vaccination series. However, since each dog is an individual with a unique medical history, your veterinarian's approval is required before having it administered.

What if my dog already has periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease can progress to four different stages. There can even be different stages of involvement in different teeth within the same dog's mouth. Appropriate periodontal therapy (i.e., dental cleanings under anesthesia) should be administered to restore health to the teeth; however, all teeth can potentially benefit from the Porphyromonas vaccine.

Some breeds of dog are predisposed to more aggressive dental disease due to conformation and genetics, including greyhounds, brachycephalics (short-nosed breeds, e.g., pugs and shih-tzus), and toy breeds (such as poodles and yorkies). We strongly recommend this vaccination for these higher-risk breeds.

If my dog receives the vaccine, are cleaning and brushing still necessary?

The Porphyromonas vaccine should be used as part of a total dental care package that includes at-home care and professional cleanings. Even with the use of the Porphyromonas vaccine, tartar and plaque may still develop.

What are the possible side effects of the Porphyromonas vaccine?

As with any vaccine, the potential exists for side effects after vaccination. If you notice anything unusual, contact us.