When you bring your sweet, new puppy home you’ll probably be excited to show them off and introduce them to their new environment. But before you bring your puppy out in public, be aware that they should have their immunizations first. Puppies have weak immune systems, and are susceptible to a variety of viruses on the ground and in the air. It is important to make sure your puppy has their shots before you take them to public places such the park or dog-friendly restaurants. Even less popular areas in your neighborhood could have unnoticeable viruses lurking around from other dogs.
The best way to protect your puppy from these viruses is by vaccinating them. You may be asking, “What kind of shots does my puppy need? And when should I get them?” When you get a puppy, it’s recommended that you take it to the vet as soon as possible for an examination. Your vet will check your puppy’s ears, temperature, coat, mouth, teeth, abdomen, and weight. If your puppy is between 6 to 8-weeks-old, this is a good time for your puppy to get its first set of shots. Some veterinarians prefer that your puppy is 8-weeks-old before their first vaccine to ensure that the process is effective. The first shots will consist of some of the core vaccinations that your puppy needs.
All puppies need the core vaccines of canine distemper, adenovirus 2 (which prevents canine hepatitis), canine parvovirus, the parainfluenza virus, and the rabies virus. Core vaccines are crucial for protecting your puppy from the various life-threatening diseases he or she can contract. Below is a brief description of what each of these vaccines protects against:
• Canine distemper – Canine distemper attack’s a puppy’s gastrointestinal system, nervous system, and respiratory system. It can be contracted by sharing water dishes or even through the air. Distemper can cause fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, twitching, paralysis, and death.
• Adenovirus 2 – This vaccination protects against canine hepatitis which is a highly contagious viral infection that affects a dog’s liver, kidneys, spleen, lungs, and eyes. Symptoms range from a slight fever and congestion to vomiting, stomach swelling, liver pain, and jaundice. There is no cure for canine hepatitis.
• Canine parvovirus – Parvo is a highly contagious virus. Puppies younger than four months old (and unvaccinated dogs) have the highest risk of contracting it. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal system and can cause loss of appetite, vomiting, fever, and severe, bloody diarrhea. Dogs can die from the severe dehydration that accompanies these symptoms. If you think your puppy has contracted parvovirus, contact your veterinarian immediately. Your vet can keep your dog hydrated while they wait for the pup’s immune system to fight the virus. There is no cure for parvo.
• Rabies virus – Rabies is a viral disease that is usually transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. Rabies affects the central nervous system and causes headaches, anxiety, hallucinations, excessive drooling, fear of water, paralysis, and death. It is important to treat a rabid animal within hours of infection, otherwise, it is likely to be fatal. Most states require a rabies vaccination.
• Parainfluenza virus - a highly contagious respiratory virus which leads to “Kennel Cough” in dogs. Symptoms can include a cough and a runny nose.
Puppy vaccinations protect against a number of dangerous diseases. After the first round of immunizations, your puppy will need to return to the vet every two to four weeks for four more rounds of core vaccines. There are also optional shots for your puppy, which include Bordetella, Lyme disease, and leptospirosis (consult your vet to see if these are right for your pup).
If your dog is over 16-weeks-old and isn’t up to date on shots, it is a good idea to get them vaccinated. Contact us to find out if you should start the vaccination process from the beginning. As your dog ages, consider the benefits of annual vaccinations.
Remember to keep up with your puppy’s immunizations to ensure their overall health and well-being. Contact us today to schedule vaccinations for your furry pal!
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