Attention all pet lovers! Protecting your furry friend from harmful diseases should be a top priority. Luckily, vaccinating your puppy is a simple and cost-effective solution to keeping them healthy and happy. As trusted vets in Fairhaven, we're here to provide you with all the information you need to give your pup the best start in life.
The Importance of Puppy Shots Schedule
Dog vaccines protect your pet against a host of serious diseases that could threaten their life, just as they have been designed for people. Just like you'd take care of your dog or puppy when they're sick, you should take care to help prevent that from ever happening. Not to mention, treatment for the illnesses your dog shots protect against is likely to cost more than the cost of their shots.
Not All Dogs Need All Vaccines
In the Fairhaven area, vaccines are recommended to help prevent bordetella, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and rabies.
The other vaccines your veterinarian will recommend for your dog will be based on your dog's age, where you live, and your dog's lifestyle.
All about puppy deworming and vaccination schedule
Puppy Vaccination Schedule
Six to Eight Weeks
- *DHPP Shot 1 (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Leptospirosis (Optional)
Ten to 12 Weeks
- DHPP Shot 2
- Bordetella
- Leptospirosis Booster (Optional)
14 to 16 Weeks
- DHPP Shot 3
- Rabies
- Bordetella Booster
- Leptospirosis Booster (Optional)
- Recommended Spay and Neuter
12 to 16 Months
- Annual Exam
- DHPP
- Rabies
- Bordetella
- Leptospirosis (Optional)
- Heartworm Testing
Why is deworming important for puppies?
Puppies are often born with worms passed down from their mother, and they can also pick up parasites from their environment.
These parasites can cause a range of health problems, from malnourishment to anemia, and in severe cases, they can be fatal.
Deworming your puppy will help eliminate any worms or parasites and prevent future infestations.
When should you deworm your puppy?
Deworming should start when your puppy is between two to three weeks old and should be repeated every two to three weeks until they are 12 weeks old.
After that, deworming should occur every three to six months, depending on the risk factors in your pup's environment.
Some puppies may require more frequent deworming, so it's always a good idea to consult your vet to determine the best schedule for your pup.
How is deworming done?
Deworming medication comes in various forms, including tablets, liquid, or paste.
Your vet will recommend the best type of medication for your pup and will advise you on how to administer it.
It's important to follow the instructions carefully and make sure your puppy takes the full course of medication to ensure that all parasites are eliminated.
Possible Side Effects of Dog Vaccines
Some dogs may have a bad reaction to getting their shots. The sensitivity to an individual ingredient of a specific vaccine is typically caused by this.
Dogs of different breeds have different reactions to some ingredients. Some sheepdogs, such as German shepherds, are sensitive to individual vaccinations.
Your vet will skip any vaccines that contain ingredients that your dog may be sensitive to.
The Bottom Line on Dog Vaccines
Vaccinations are a key element of your dog's preventive health care. By taking your dog in for his/her shots early in life, then regularly as they move through adulthood, you give your furry friend the very best chance of living a long and healthy life.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.