Puppy Vaccines
Congratulations on your new puppy!
Puppies require three sets of vaccines to properly prepare their little bodies to fight off the contagious and deadly diseases, out in that big new world. They receive their first set of vaccines at 8 weeks of age, then we see them again at 12 and 16 weeks of age for two more rounds. We not only give them their vaccinations but a wellness exam to ensure they are happy, healthy and progressing, as they should be for their age.
What vaccinations do you provide new puppies?
There are two different categories of vaccines; Core and Non-Core.
Core – administered to all healthy dogs.
Non-Core – administered selectively based on geography, lifestyle and exposure risk.
Core Vaccines include:
- Distemper Complex – Protects against distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), leptospirosis, parainfluenza, parvo and coronavirus. These diseases attack the respiratory system, liver, kidneys, intestines, cause joint pain, lethargy, and some can be spread to humans.
- Rabies – Fatal and incurable. Rabies affects the nervous system and can be spread to humans. This vaccine is required by law.
Non-Core Vaccines include:
- Bordetella – More commonly known as kennel cough. Required when boarding dogs in a kennel or daycare.
- Lyme – Disease spread by the deer tick. Recommended for dogs who live in or travel to Lyme endemic areas.
At what age should I bring in my puppy for their vaccinations?
At 8 weeks of age, your puppy will receive their first dose of the distemper complex, which includes vaccines for distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), parainfluenza, parvo and leptospirosis. This vaccine is usually given by the breeder or rescue before you adopt your new puppy.
At 12 weeks of age, your puppy will receive a ‘booster’ (second dose) of the original distemper complex in order to boost their immunity to these dangerous diseases. They will also get their first dose of the coronavirus vaccine at this time. This is usually your puppy’s first time meeting your own veterinarian and will be an exciting visit for everyone.
Lastly, at 16 weeks of age, your puppy will receive their last ‘booster’ of the original distemper complex, their second dose of the coronavirus, and will now get the rabies vaccine. During this visit, you may also opt to get your puppy the Bordetella and Lyme vaccines as well, based on the puppy’s lifestyle and exposure risk. This decision will be based on a discussion with your veterinarian during your appointment.
How should I prepare my puppy for their first vaccination visit?
You and your puppy should not be scared to come to visit us at the veterinary clinic. Before your puppy’s first vaccination appointment with us, schedule a time to come in just for a visit, step on the scale, meet our staff and get some treats. We want to ensure you both know that the veterinary clinic can be a fun place, and not just for check-ups and vaccinations. By taking that first car ride and visit with us before the first vaccines, it ensures that the next time you come in will be way less stressful for you both.
How much do puppy vaccinations cost?
The vaccine protocol for each puppy differs based on health, age, lifestyle and exposure risks. During your visit with your puppy, we will provide them with a comprehensive physical exam and discuss what vaccines will best suit their needs at that time. Please call our clinic today with any questions or concerns you may have about vaccines and the costs associated.
