Vaccination is a great way to give your puppy immunity to infectious diseases and make sure they are as safe as they can be.
Getting a new puppy is a really exciting time with lots to think about, but it’s important not to forget to give them their vaccinations! Puppies can suffer from a range of nasty diseases, some which cause a lot of discomfort and others that can kill. Thankfully, we can protect our puppies from some of these. Vaccination is a great way to give your puppy immunity to some of the worst infectious diseases, and make sure they are as safe as they can be.
When should my puppy be vaccinated?
Once your puppy is 6 – 8 weeks old, they can have their first vaccinations – usually called the primary course. This consists of two or three injections, given 2 – 4 weeks apart, based on local risk factors. Your vet will discuss the most suitable option for your pet. Some puppies will have their first of these vaccinations while they are still with their breeder.
After your puppy’s second round of vaccinations we advise waiting two weeks until taking your puppy outside so that they are fully protected in public spaces. Once any puppy has had their initial course of injections, they will only need one injection per year afterwards to keep that immunity ‘topped up’.
What happens at a vaccination appointment?
A vaccination appointment is much more than a quick injection for your puppy.
Your puppy will be weighed, and have a thorough medical exam. Your vet will probably ask you lots of questions about how your pet has been behaving, about any issues, and about specific topics such as their eating and drinking habits. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions, including about behaviour – your vet will be able to help you get your new puppy settled in as fast as possible.
As well as the thorough exam, your vet will administer the vaccinations. The injection is given under the skin at the back of the neck, and is well tolerated by the vast majority of puppies.
The infectious tracheobronchitis (kennel cough) vaccine is the only vaccine which is not injectable. This is a liquid which is given as a squirt up the nose – no needles involved!
What can I vaccinate my dog against?
Infectious canine hepatitis
Leptospirosis
Distemper
Canine parvovirus
Kennel cough
Rabies
Post time: Jun-19-2024