European immunisation week is here. It’s got me thinking about whether my children’s (and my) vaccinations are up to date. It also made me think about my dog. Fortunately I’d received a reminder from my vet’s office that his booster was due. If you are a new dog owner, you won’t have had that handy little reminder, so have you thought about puppy vaccinations?
When should you get puppy vaccinations?
In the UK, puppy vaccinations need to take place in two rounds to ensure that your puppy has sufficient protection to meet other dogs and the rest of the world. The first round of vaccinations takes place when the puppy is about 8 weeks old. The second round of vaccinations would then follow at around 10-12 weeks old.
What puppy vaccinations should my puppy get?
The puppy vaccinations give your dog protection against 4 diseases. These are parvovirus, canine distemper, hepatitis and leptospirosis. All of these diseases are fatal for dogs, so having each round of vaccinations is vital.
Where should I go for puppy vaccinations?
Simply register with a veterinary practice in your area. You can then make appointments for the relevant vaccinations. If you have any questions about the specifics of these vaccinations your veterinarian will be able to offer advice for you and your dog.
When your dog receives the vaccinations your vet will note what has been given and when. This will also be written on a vaccination record card that you can keep on file. This card will need to be shown at the kennel and sometimes is required if you want to use a dog-walking service.
It is advisable to equip your car properly for these trips to the vet. Your puppy is likely to be still in the throes of being house trained. Little accidents can still happen at this stage and especially if your pup is anxious about going to an unfamiliar place such as the vet’s surgery. Having a vehicle-specific dog guard to keep your puppy securely positioned at the rear of the vehicle is a smart move. Also, adding a vehicle-specific boot liner to protect your boot’s interior from any toileting accidents is just as smart. Cleaning up is a breeze and you’ll avoid some nasty odours lingering in the boot of your car.
What next?
You may think that because your puppy received all the necessary vaccinations that your dog is fully protected. This is not the case. To maintain that level of protection in your dog it is essential to take him for booster vaccinations every year. It is also important to be consistent in when you take him for the booster. If you overrun by more than 6 months you may have to start the vaccination process from the beginning. If your dog regularly mixes with others or stays in kennels you will also need to vaccinate for Kennel Cough every year too. Puppy vaccinations are vital for your little guy and the booster becomes essential each year of your dog’s life.
If you are going to be travelling overseas with your dog, you may also need to get a rabies vaccination. Again, your vet will be able to offer the necessary advice.
Don’t worry about your dog receiving the vaccinations. Your dog may have a moment of discomfort but for most dogs that is easily forgotten by the offer of treats. Side effects of the vaccinations are rare, but if your dog does look off-colour after them, consult your vet. Importantly, he has another year of protection against even more unpleasant discomfort.
Information given in this article is not a substitute for advice from a qualified medical professional. Please consult a vet for advice specific to your dog.
