There are a variety of parasites and diseases that can have a serious impact on the health of your pet. Luckily, there are preventive measures you can take to protect your little friend. Our Killen vets talk about routine preventive care including a puppy vaccination schedule.
The Importance of Routine Vaccines
Bringing your dog in for routine vaccines is a crucial part of preventive care. Starting with puppy shots early in life, then keeping booster shots up-to-date as they move through adulthood, gives your canine companion their very best chance of living a long and healthy life.
Maintaining a schedule for routine vaccinations for your dog could also save you time and money since treatment for the diseases prevented by these vaccines can be time-consuming and very expensive.
Which vaccinations are often recommended for puppies?
The vaccines recommended for dogs in the Killen area include immunizations to help protect against Bordetella, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and rabies.
Your veterinarian will be able to recommend the shots that are most appropriate for your dog based on your pet's age, where you live, and your dog's lifestyle.
Puppy Shots Schedule Chart
Your puppy will have a vaccine schedule based on different factors. Below we provide our recommended puppy shot schedules. By following these schedules we believe that you are giving your four-legged family member their very best chance at a long and healthy life.
Puppy Shot Schedule
6 - 8 Weeks
- DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
10 - 12 Weeks
- Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Bordetella (Optional)
- Leptospirosis (Optional)
14 - 16 Weeks
- Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
- Booster: Bordetella (Optional)
- Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
Adult Dog Vaccine Schedule
Annually
- Final Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
- Final Booster: Bordetella (Optional)
- Final Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
Every 3 Years
Depending on the vaccine used, your dog may have certain boosters every three years instead of annually. These include:
- Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
Age Restrictions
Speak to your vet to find out more about which vaccines are appropriate for your dog. Very young puppies and senior dogs with compromised immune systems are not eligible for all shots.
What are the risks with preventive care?
While getting your puppy onto a routine deworming and vaccination schedule is a standard part of care, there may be a risk of minor side effects as with any medication or procedure.
While reactions to vaccinations in dogs and puppies are quite rare. If they do occur they are usually fairly mild and pass quickly.
That said, in rare cases some dogs may have an allergic reaction to getting their shots. This is typically due to a sensitivity to an individual ingredient of a specific vaccine. Different breeds tend to react to some ingredients.
Breeds including German shepherds, collies, and some sheepdogs are known to be sensitive to individual vaccines. Your veterinarian will skip any vaccines that contain ingredients that your dog may be sensitive to.
Reach Out to Your Vet
In the end, when it comes to ensuring that your companion is adequately protected, you should consult with your vet. They will be able to provide the puppy deworming and vaccination schedule that best suits your furry friend.
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.