Vaccine and Wellness Recommendations for Puppies
Puppies need a series of vaccinations to "teach" their immune systems how to protect their bodies from the deadly disease that may threaten them. The first set of vaccines is given at six to nine weeks of age and then repeated every three weeks until the puppy is at least twelve weeks old. Many puppies are given their first set of vaccines prior to adoption; with these animals, we just pick up the series at the point the puppy is when adopted. Some breeds of dogs are particularly susceptible to the Parvo Virus and may need an additional vaccine at 15 to 16 weeks of age.
All puppies should be vaccinated against Canine Distemper Virus, Adenovirus 2, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza Virus, and Parvo Virus. We call this vaccine the Distemper/Parvo Combo or DALPP. It is important that the last in this series of vaccines is given when the puppy is at least twelve weeks old to assure the vaccine has overcome the antibody resistance the puppy gets from its mother when it is first born.
We also recommend that all puppies have their stools checked for parasites as early as possible. Parasites pose not only a risk to you pet but also can be a risk to you and your family. We need a small sample of one of your puppy's bowel movements to perform this test. We can provide you with a sample cup if you need one.
Puppies that will go to groomers, doggie day care, training classes, or boarding kennels should also receive a Bordetella or Infectious Bronchitis vaccine. This disease which is also known as kennel cough spreads easily when groups of dogs are in close proximity to each other. Most boarding facilities and many groomers now require this vaccine which is given when the puppy is at least 9 weeks of age.
Puppies that will hunt, camp, hike, or live near deer populations should be vaccinated against Lyme Disease. Also, dogs traveling to New England and the upper Midwest (WI and MN) should also be vaccinated. This vaccine is also given at nine to twelve weeks of age and repeated in three weeks.
Rabies vaccine is required by law in most areas. This vaccine is given after twelve weeks of age and repeated in a year. After the first year, Rabies vaccines are given every three years. In addition to the importance of protecting your pet from this deadly disease, fines for failure to vaccinate your dog can be over $100 in Toledo.