How to Give Vaccinations to a Puppy
Puppies need vaccinations to help them get immunity to some diseases and illnesses, such as parvovirus, parainfluenza, distemper, hepatitis and adenovirus cough, and in some cases coronavirus, lyme and leptospirosis. Normally, these vaccinations are given beginning at six weeks of age, with additional vaccinations given every three weeks until the puppy is 15 to 16 weeks. While it is possible to take the puppy to a veterinarian for shots, you can also give the puppy the shots at home.
Instructions
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Prepare the injection
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1
Read the directions on the injection packet thoroughly. The injection packet usually includes the vials of vaccines, a syringe, needle and instructions.The instructions may include information on the exact dosage needed or the temperature at which the medication needs to be stored until the vaccination is given. Vaccine packets are usually available at farm supply stores and feed stores or online from some veterinary supply websites.
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Attach the needle to the syringe. Most needles will screw into the syringe. You must make sure that it is tightly secured so that the vaccine won't leak out.
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3
Insert the syringe into the rubber top on the vaccine vile. Draw out the liquid into the syringe by holding the vial and syringe upside down and gently pulling back on the syringe's plunger.
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4
Turn the syringe with the needle pointing up and push the plunger gently to remove any air bubbles. You may have to gently tap the syringe to remove air bubbles.
Inject the puppy
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5
Hold the puppy firmly. If you have another person with you, have him hold the puppy while you give the shot. If you are alone, you may have to kneel on the floor and secure the dog's back end between your knees.
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6
Pinch the skin on the top of the dog's neck or just above one of the dog's shoulders. Most vaccinations are given subcutaneously, which means under the skin.
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Insert the needle into the skin. The entire needle should be in the skin.
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8
Pull back on the plunger gently to check for blood. If you see blood in the syringe, you have placed the needle in a blood vessel. In that case, you must remove the needle and try again in another spot near the spot where you initially placed the needle. If there is not any blood, you can continue to the give the puppy his vaccination.
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Push the plunger slowly toward the needle to force the vaccine into the puppy. Do this until all of the liquid is gone and the plunger reaches the stop on the syringe.
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10
Remove the needle from the puppy. Dispose of the needle and syringe according to your local laws. In some areas, the needle must be broken and disposed of separately from the syringe.
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Rub the spot on the puppy where you gave the injection. It may feel like a knot for a little while. If the knot lasts, take the dog to a veterinarian, as the vaccine may not be effective.
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Tips & Warnings
Some vaccines, such as 5-in-1 (5 way) or 7-in-1 (7 way), which vaccinate against multiple illnesses in a single shot, may have two vials that must be mixed. If so, you should do this when you prepare the injection.
Ensure that the vaccines you purchase are in a climate-controlled environment. All canine vaccines must be refrigerated to ensure they are viable and will protect your puppy against diseases.
While it is possible to purchase rabies vaccines online, most states require that a veterinarian administer the shots and provide you with a record of the vaccination.
