Guide to Puppy Vaccines With Your Baltimore, MD, Veterinarian
Just like their humans, puppies are vulnerable to illnesses and diseases that can affect their well-being. Your pup can also unknowingly spread some of those illnesses through saliva - putting your family’s health in jeopardy.
That’s why preventative care through vaccinations is one of the most important parts of pet care for your favorite four-legged. Learn more in this guide from our team at The Village Vet.
How Do Vaccines Work? Why Are They So Important?
Much like human vaccines, puppy vaccines protect your pet against viruses and bacterial infections. By introducing a weakened or dead version of a pathogen into your pup’s body, your dog’s immune system will act to defend itself against the intruder by developing antibodies. Your dog’s immune system will then recognize the pathogen in the future and deploy antibodies to ward off infection.
Vaccines are crucial because exposure to a virus or harmful bacteria can happen at any time. Even a normal walk in the park or playtime in your backyard could put your pet at risk.
What Type of Vaccinations Does My Pet Need?
Puppy vaccines fall into two categories: core and non-core. Core vaccinations are important for all dogs and include the following:
- Rabies
- Hepatitis
- Canine distemper
- Hepatitis
- Canine parvovirus
- Parainfluenza
Non-core vaccines are recommended based on factors such as your location and your pup’s lifestyle, as some pets are more at risk for certain issues than others. Non-core vaccinations include:
- Canine influenza
- Leptospirosis
- Lyme vaccine
- Bordetella
Your veterinarian will recommend the best vaccinations for your puppy’s needs and ensure that you meet any local or state requirements.
When Does My Puppy Need These Vaccines?
Your pet’s vaccination schedule might vary to some degree, depending on appointment availability and other factors. You should expect to complete your puppy’s first round of vaccinations between six and eight weeks old.
Typically, your vet will recommend a DHPP vaccination, which combines Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza vaccines into a single shot. DHPP is administered as a series of injections starting at about 6 weeks of age and given every 2 to 4 weeks until the puppy is 16 weeks old.
At 16 to 18 weeks, your puppy should also receive the rabies vaccine. Other non-core vaccinations will be recommended along the way.
Schedule Your Pet Care Appointment with Your Baltimore, MD, Veterinarian
At The Village Vet, we want to help you keep your puppy strong and healthy for as long as possible. Call (410) 367-3749 to schedule a visit with our veterinarians today!