What Are the Shots That Puppies Need?
Puppies need a series of shots given at scheduled intervals to protect them from specific canine diseases. Many of the shots are combined and given as a single vaccination at each of these intervals.
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Distemper Shots
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Canine distemper is an airborne virus that affects the respiratory, the gastrointestinal and sometimes the nervous system. The disease has a high fatality rate, especially for puppies. Vaccinations are given at six, nine and 12 weeks. Annual boosters are given starting at one year of age.
Parvovirus Shots
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Parvovirus is a virus that is spread when puppies come in contact with infected feces. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal system and causes fatigue, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. Death can occur as quickly as 48 to 72 hours from the appearance of the first visible symptoms. Vaccinations are given at six, nine and 12 weeks. Adult dogs receive annual boosters beginning at one year of age.
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Infectious Hepatitis Shots
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Similar to human strains, hepatitis is a viral illness affecting the liver. Initially, the virus attacks the tonsils, causing a sore throat and coughing. In the early stages, it affects the eyes, liver and kidneys. The white part of the eyes or corneas may appear cloudy or bluish. As the illness progresses, symptoms may include seizures, increased thirst, vomiting and diarrhea. Death can occur in as little as two hours after initial signs. Vaccinations are given at six, nine and 12 weeks, and are included in annual boosters.
Canine Parainfluenza Shots
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Another virus, canine parainfluenza, causes a mild respiratory infection. Puppies contract it by coming into contact with the nasal secretions of an infected dog. Puppies receive shots at six, nine and 12 weeks. Booster shots begin at one year of age and continue annually.
Rabies Shots
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Rabies is a deadly virus transmitted via a bite from an infected animal. Incubation is slow and can take from three to eight weeks in dogs. The virus progresses in phases, taking the puppy or dog from its normal behavior to an anxious, nervous state, followed by an irritated and aggressive state, and finally to a paralytic state in which the animal eventually experiences respiratory failure. Once outward signs have appeared, the virus is almost always fatal. Requirements for rabies shots vary from state to state, with most beginning at 15 weeks of age. The shot is repeated at one year of age and then every three years. Check with your veterinarian for your state's requirements.
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