Vaccinating your puppy is the first step you as a pet owner can take to make sure your puppy is healthy and protected against potential illnesses. The vaccines recommended to you by your vet depend upon your pet’s lifestyle and individual needs. There are core vaccines, ones which every dog should receive regardless of lifestyle, and non-core vaccines which depend on your dog’s risk factors. Vaccinations are recommended because they allow a dog’s body to create antibodies against a collection of different diseases without experiencing the symptoms or becoming ill – this means that if they do become exposed to the actual disease, their body is already prepared to fight it off.
What vaccinations do you offer to new puppies?
For new puppies at their 8-week appointment we would off the Da2PP vaccine which covers, Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus and Parainfluenza. At a puppy’s 12-week appointment, we would bolster the Da2PP and administer a Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine. We could also look at vaccinating for Leptospirosis and Lyme disease. Your puppy would then come back at 16 weeks where they would receive their final Da2PP booster, their Rabies vaccine and booster for Leptospirosis and Lyme if required. Some of these vaccines we like to “split up” as to not overwhelm your dog’s system. You and your Veterinarian would discuss the best options for your dog.
Why is it important to properly vaccinate your puppy?
It is important to vaccinate your puppy to give them the best chance at immunity to certain diseases and viruses. It is also important to help stop the spread of these illnesses.
What is an appropriate schedule for puppy vaccinations?
Puppies should be vaccinated at 8, 12 and 16 weeks of age.
How should you prepare your puppy for its first vaccination visit?
You should play with your puppy to prepare them. Play with their feet, their ears, their tail, and their mouths. Get them used to having all of those places touched, so it doesn’t come as such a shock when the veterinarian does it. This will also make nail trimming, ear cleaning and grooming much easier as they grow.
How much do puppy vaccinations cost?
Pricing varies depending on your puppy’s needs. Contact us at 902-445-8387, and we can provide you with a personalised quote for you and your pet.