How to Puppy Shot Schedule
Making sure we keep our pets in good health is very important, especially when they are puppies. Vaccinations are given to puppies beginning at 6 weeks so that they can build an immunization to many diseases and bacteria that are outside. Puppies from a store or a shelter will often have their initial immunizations, but it is up to the new owner to keep track of a schedule to keep the puppy fully protected against harmful viruses.
Instructions
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Find a vet whom you can take your puppy to by asking a pet store or animal shelter where you are getting your puppy. There are vets in many cities, so finding the right one to help you keep your puppy's health at an optimal level is very important.
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Make an appointment at the vet to get your puppy's shots. Cities also offer low-cost vaccination clinics to all pet owners. You can check to see if your city offers these clinics by checking the city's website or calling the animal services division.
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Learn which vaccinations are given, depending on the age of the puppy. The distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza and parvovirus vaccines are given as a single shot, also known as DHLPP.
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Know that beginning at 6 to 8 weeks, the first DHLPP plus corona shot is given, followed by a second DHLPP plus corona at 11 to 12 weeks of age. The last shot in the series for a puppy is given at 15 to 16 weeks. Puppies over the age of 4 months are given a rabies shot, and each year after they must be revaccinated. At 7 to 9 months, puppies are given their first heartworm test.
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Keep health records current, and make sure that once the puppies reach adult age, they are still being vaccinated. The DHLPP shot should be given yearly, just as the heartworm test and bordatella immunization are also administered. Rabies vaccinations should be given every 3 years after the second immunization.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure to keep dog health records current and in an easy-to-find location. Many boarding places and major stores like Petsmart require records be kept current before you use their services such as education classes, boarding services or doggy day camp.
Never allow your puppy or adult dog to go without important immunizations--it could save his life!
Resources
- Photo Credit http://www.dog-obedience-training-review.com/images/Favorite-Puppy-Names.jpg
