Calling all new puppy owners! Firstly, huge congratulations on becoming a proud puppy parent, we couldn’t be more excited for you.
Whether your new four-legged friend was a surprise Christmas present or simply a final dream wish come true, we have the low-down on puppy vaccination need-to-knows to help you become well-informed about puppy care.
Puppy vaccinations
Puppy vaccination is a crucial part of dog care and is an area of welfare that must be taken seriously.
It is vital that every dog owner ensures their puppy has their first course of vaccinations. When they are young, your puppy is vulnerable to passing disease, many of which are serious.
Some infections naturally target puppies and can be fatal, so it is crucial that your pup is well protected from the offset, and you are aware of how you can keep them safe.
What diseases do puppy vaccinations protect against?
Puppy vaccination includes protection against the following serious diseases:
• Canine distemper – A viral disease that causes symptoms including a high temperature, diarrhoea, thickened pads, cough, runny eyes and nose and tremors.
• Hepatitis – A contagious virus that attacks the dog’s liver, immune system, eyes, kidneys and other major organs. Symptoms can include low energy (lethargy), coughing, diarrhoea and a painful/swollen belly.
• Leptospirosis (Lepto) – A bacterial infection that is caught by dogs from puddles or water carrying urine from infected wildlife. Lepto spreads through the dog’s bloodstream, causing symptoms including a reduced appetite, vomiting, fever and jaundice.
• Parvovirus (Parvo) – A highly contagious virus, Parvo causes severe vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs. It also causes severe dehydration as it attacks the dog’s intestines and is transferred/spreads in poo particles.
Sadly, the above diseases are serious and can be fatal if your pup is not fully protected.
When should I get my puppy vaccinated?
You should ensure your puppy is vaccination at eight and ten weeks, however, they can be vaccinated as early as four – six weeks. The second dose is usually given two – four weeks later. The vaccination course is given via injection by a veterinary professional.
Does my puppy need a booster?
Traditionally, it has been advised by dog professionals to give the dog an annual booster after the initial course of vaccinations.
However, in recent years this practice has come into question, with several health experts claiming that the original course of vaccinations can easily last five years or longer. Some dog professionals believe that the booster leads to needless strain on the dog’s immune system on a yearly basis and might not be necessary.
There is also a process known as titer testing, a blood test that checks the dog’s blood for immunity and could prevent unnecessary vaccination.
Our professional guidelines when it comes to vaccinations and boosters is that we will happily accept a dog for grooming at 12 weeks or more, providing they have received both courses of vaccinations. We would recommend your dog having yearly boosters to keep them well protected from any eventuality.
Find out more
If you are a proud new puppy parent and would like to find out more about vaccinations, boosters, or the symptoms of potentially harmful canine diseases, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Our experts are on hand to offer you professional advice to ensure your new family member is kept safe.
