Protecting your new puppy from harmful diseases should be a top priority. Luckily, vaccinating your furry friend is a simple and cost-effective solution to keeping them healthy and happy. Our trusted vets in Tucson are here to provide you with all the information you need to give your pup the best start in life.
The Importance of puppy shots schedule
Just as they work for people, dog vaccines protect your pet against a host of serious diseases that could threaten their life. Getting this prevention in them while they are young and their immune system is developing is especially important to help protect them later in life. Additionally, treatment for the illnesses your dog shots protect against is likely to cost significantly more than the cost of their shots, so getting the prevention in early is best.
Not All Dogs Need All Vaccines
In the Tucson area, vaccines are recommended to help prevent parainfluenza, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and rabies.
Your veterinarian will recommend vaccines for your dog based on their age, where you live, and your dog's lifestyle.
All about puppy deworming and vaccination schedule
Puppy Vaccination Schedule
Six to Eight Weeks
- *DHPP Shot 1 (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
Ten to 12 Weeks
- Influenza Virus-H3N8
- Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Bordetella (Optional)
- Leptospirosis (Optional)
14 to 16 Weeks
- Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
- Booster: Bordetella (Optional)
- Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
12 to 16 Months
- Final Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
- Final Booster: Bordetella (Optional)
- Final Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
Why is deworming important for puppies?
Puppies are often born with worms passed down from their mother. They can also pick up parasites from their environment.
These parasites can cause a range of health problems, from malnourishment to anemia, and in severe cases, they can be fatal.
Deworming your puppy will help eliminate any worms or parasites and prevent future infestations.
When should you deworm your puppy?
Deworming should start when your puppy is between two to three weeks old and should be repeated every two to three weeks until they are 12 weeks old.
After that, deworming should occur every three to six months, depending on the risk factors in your pup's environment.
Some puppies may require more frequent deworming, so it's always a good idea to consult your vet to determine the best schedule for your pup.
How is deworming done?
Deworming medication comes in various forms, including tablets, liquid, or paste.
Your vet will recommend the best type of medication for your pup and will advise you on how to administer it.
It's important to follow the instructions carefully and make sure your puppy takes the full course of medication to ensure that all parasites are eliminated.
Possible Side Effects of Dog Vaccines
Some dogs may be sensitive to a specific ingredient in a vaccine, and may therefore have a bad reaction to it.
Dogs of different breeds have different reactions to some ingredients. Some sheepdogs, such as German shepherds, are sensitive to individual vaccinations.
Your vet will skip any vaccines that contain ingredients that your dog may be sensitive to.
The Bottom Line on Dog Vaccines
Vaccinations are a key element of your dog's preventive health care. By taking your dog in for his/her shots early in life, then regularly as they move through adulthood, you give your furry friend the very best chance of living a long and healthy life.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.