Yay! If you’re on this page, chances are you are now the new guardian of a puppy. Soak in all of the fun and cute moments that your new canine pal brings! But, do remember that as their owner, you are responsible for keeping them as healthy as possible. Getting your puppy vaccinated is the first step. By doing so, you will give them an increased chance of staying strong all their life.
When should puppies get their first vaccination?
At Morrisburg Animal Hospital, we recommend that puppies are given their first vaccination at 8, 12 and 16-weeks-old.
Why is it important to vaccinate my puppy?
At this stage in their life, your puppy’s immune system has not yet fully developed. By making sure that they are vaccinated, you will protect them from serious and potentially lethal conditions like parvovirus infection, canine distemper, respiratory infections and rabies – which they can transmit to you and other humans. Therefore, vaccines protect not just your cherished puppy, but also other animals and people around you.
What vaccines does a puppy need?
First, all puppies need their core vaccines like DHP and rabies. Then, depending on lifestyle and home environment, non-core vaccines to protect against leptospirosis, Lyme disease and bordetella may be prescribed by the veterinarian. For example, hunting dogs are going to need more protection than dogs who spend most of their time indoors.
Vaccines for Dogs
Your fully grown dog may be strong and independent, but they still need to be protected with vaccines. The doses they received when they were puppies will not provide them with protection all their life. Is your pet due for their next vaccine shot? Please call us right away at 613-543-2812 to schedule their next appointment. Missing just one scheduled dose or being late can leave your pet’s immunity compromised.
What types of vaccinations do you offer for adult dogs?
First, we offer CORE vaccines for our canine patients which are the DAPPV and rabies vaccine. Then, depending on your veterinarian’s recommendation, your pet can also receive NON-CORE vaccines like bordetella, leptospirosis and the influenza vaccine here at our hospital.
Is there a schedule for how often a dog should be vaccinated?
Again, each patient is different and may require more or fewer doses tailored to their own needs. By coming in for a consultation, we can recommend the schedule that is best suited for your pet. We recommend that adult dogs are vaccinated every 1 to 3 years. The DAPPV and rabies vaccines are usually given every 3 years. Bordetella, lepto, influenza and Lyme disease vaccines are usually given once per year.