We know that bringing your puppy in often for vaccine appointments can feel a little busy, but preventive care helps to protect them against a number of serious diseases. Our Gallup vets talk about the importance of routine dog vaccines and what the puppy shot schedule looks like.
How Vaccines Are Vital to Your Dog's Health
Bringing your dog in for routine vaccines is a crucial part of preventive care. Starting with puppy shots early in life, then keeping booster shots up-to-date as they move through adulthood, gives your canine companion their very best chance of living a long and healthy life.
Maintaining a schedule for routine vaccinations for your dog could also save you time and money since treatment for the diseases prevented by these vaccines can be time-consuming and very expensive.
What vaccines are needed to keep your dog healthy?
The vaccines recommended for dogs in the Gallup area include immunizations to help protect against Bordetella, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and rabies.
Your veterinarian will be able to recommend the shots that are most appropriate for your dog based on your pet's age, where you live and your dog's lifestyle.
Puppy Vaccine Schedule & Adult Dog Shots
When it comes to the vaccine schedule for your puppy, it will depend on their specific needs. Below we provide our recommended schedules for getting your puppy's shots and your adult dog's booster vaccines. By following these schedules we believe that you are giving your four-legged family member their very best chance at a long and healthy life.
Puppy Shot Schedule
6 - 8 Weeks
- *DHPP Shot 1
10 - 12 Weeks
- *DHPP Shot 2
- Bordetella
- Leptospirosis
14 - 16 Weeks
- *DHPP Shot 3
- Bordetella
- Leptospirosis
- Rabies
Adult Dog Vaccine Schedule
Annually
- *DHPP Booster
- Bordetella
- Leptospirosis
- Lyme
- Rabies
Every 3 Years
Depending on the vaccine used, your dog may have certain boosters every three years instead of annually. These include:
- DHPP Booster
- Rabies
*DHPP: This vaccine protects against Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.
Age Restrictions
Speak to your vet to find out more about which vaccines are appropriate for your dog. Very young puppies and senior dogs with compromised immune systems are not eligible for all shots.
What are the possible complications with dog vaccines?
Vaccine side effects in dogs and puppies are quite rare. If they do occur they are usually fairly mild and pass quickly.
That said, in rare cases some dogs may have an allergic reaction to getting their shots. This is typically due to a sensitivity to an individual ingredient of a specific vaccine. Different breeds tend to react to some ingredients.
Breeds including German shepherds, collies, and some sheepdogs are known to be sensitive to individual vaccines. Your veterinarian will skip any vaccines that contain ingredients that your dog may be sensitive to.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.