Vaccinations

Like humans, dogs are susceptible to certain illnesses that can be prevented with vaccines. The first of these is usually given at around six to eight weeks of age. It’s a combined vaccination that protects your pup from four common diseases: canine distemper, infectious hepatitis, para-influenza, and the parvovirus, or parvo as it’s commonly called. This is call the DHPP vaccination. Your pup should get a booster shot of DHPP at around nine weeks of age, and your vet may also recommend other vaccinations depending on your pup’s risk level.

After 12 weeks of age, your pup will be given the rabies vaccine as well as another DHPP shot. Then you won’t have to worry about vaccinations again until your pup is around 15 months old, when the vet will give them the same again. After that, you only have to come back for annual rabies and DHPP boosters, though the rabies may be given less frequently.

Other preventive care

In addition to vaccinations, your vet will recommend treating your pup for heartworms, a potentially-deadly parasite that is transmitted by mosquitoes and attacks your pet’s heart and lungs. Dogs under six months are not typically tested for the disease, but simply given medication to prevent it. Older dogs will need to have tests done to rule out the disease before preventative meds can be given.

Your vet will also recommend treating your pup to prevent flea infestation and they’ll recommend having your pup spayed or neutered by the age of six months. This will not only help prevent unwanted pregnancies, but it can actually help keep your pet healthier, too.

Prevention is definitely easier and less expensive than trying to cure a sick dog. Check with your vet to see what they recommend for your new puppy.

And of course, they will need proper training! A well-trained dog has a happier life. Get in touch if you could use some one-on-one help.