Vaccinations are an important part of puppy health care. Not only do vaccines protect your puppy from infectious disease, but they also help to keep the overall canine population safe from many deadly viruses and bacteria. It is important to stay up to date on the recommended vaccinations for your puppy’s breed, lifestyle, and age.
Puppies should be vaccinated every three to four weeks for the first few months of their life. Your veterinarian will recommend the right series of vaccines for your puppy, based on your puppy’s individual needs. The following vaccinations are generally recommended for a puppy in their first year of life:
· Distemper: Distemper is a highly contagious virus that is spread through several sources, including coughing, sneezing, and contact with infected animals. Symptoms include flu-like illness, diarrhea, vomiting, and seizures. It is fatal if untreated.
· Parvovirus: Also known as Parvo, this virus is extremely contagious and potentially deadly for puppies. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, watery diarrhea, and lethargy. This virus can survive for up to a year in soil and on surfaces, so avoiding areas where Parvo could be present is important.
· Adenovirus Cough (Kennel Cough): Kennel Cough is a combination of two viral infections, adenovirus and parainfluenza, that can be spread through other animals, like dogs. It causes coughing, sneezing, and labored breathing.
· Rabies: Rabies is a viral infection that is spread through the saliva of infected animals. Symptoms can range from fever and confusion to paralysis and even death. Rabies is fatal if untreated. Vaccination is important, especially if your puppy will be going outdoors or exposed to other animals.
It is important to consult with your veterinarian and develop a vaccination plan that is right for your puppy’s needs. Vaccinations are an essential part of puppy health care and help to protect your pup from serious and deadly diseases.