If you are a new owner of a puppy, this might be unfamiliar territory for you. This short article will provide you with some helpful information when it comes to the much needed vaccinations.
When puppies are born, their immune systems are not established enough to produce antibodies - this only starts to happen at the age of about 8 to 12 weeks. Nature offers provisional immunity in the form of colostrum which is loaded with antibodies. Newborn puppies that are unsuccessful at suckling colostrum in the first few days of their lives will be very vulnerable to contracting diseases until the point where their own immune system matures and produces its own antibodies. As new pet owners it is easy to take for granted that your puppy did receive the much needed colostrum from its mother.
Puppies are normally weaned at the age of about 8 weeks, and from this point onwards it is you as the owner's responsibility to look after your new puppy, and put him on a vaccination program.
Below is a typical example of a vaccination schedule that you can follow. The first visit should be at around 8 weeks of age, and your puppy should receive vaccinations for Distemper, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza and Hepatitis.You puppy's third vaccination visit should then be at around 12 weeks of age, and they should again receive vaccinations for Distemper, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza and Hepatitis.
During your puppy's third visit at the age of 16 weeks, they should receive vaccinations for Parvovirus, Rabies, Parainfluenza, Distemper and Hepatitis. Some of the larger dog breeds should receive a fourth set of vaccinations for Parvovirus at the age of 20 weeks. On your puppy's first visit, the vet will provide your puppy with a wide-ranging examination to make sure that they are healthy. They will also check their teeth, ears, eyes and also listen to their heart and lungs. You should use this opportunity to ask questions that you may have about your new puppy.
During the time of your puppy's first vaccination, they will also be put on a de-worming schedule. It is very important for you as the owner to protect your puppy against internal parasites. It is also vital for you to protect your puppy against the deadly disease of heartworm. Heartworm is common in most parts of the world. Obtain all the facts you require to make a knowledgeable decision on heartworm prevention for your puppy.
Vaccinations and Your Puppy