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When you have a puppy, ensuring they get the proper dog vaccinations will help them grow up healthy and strong. This is a necessary step in protecting them, as puppies' immune systems are still developing, making them more vulnerable to diseases. Below is a brief overview of which vaccines your puppy needs at certain ages so that you can get the best help from a veterinarian.

6-8 Weeks

Distemper is an airborne virus that compromises the gastrointestinal, nervous, and respiratory systems of dogs. Since this disease is potentially deadly, this is one of the first dog vaccinations you should schedule.

Parvovirus is another contagious virus that affects the gastrointestinal system of your puppy, and can lead to vomiting, loss of appetite, and dehydration. Commonly, veterinarians give this vaccine alongside the distemper one during a puppy's first appointment.

10-12 Weeks

dog vaccinations

After the first round of dog vaccinations, your puppy will need a second visit in the next few weeks. This is to protect them from canine hepatitis and parainfluenza, both of which are contagious conditions. Parainfluenza is one of several viruses that causes kennel cough, leading to upper respiratory inflammation and coughing. Commonly, a veterinarian gives these with a DHPP vaccine, which contains the second doses of distemper and parvovirus, as well as hepatitis and parainfluenza.

16-18 Weeks

Next, your puppy can relax for some time before they need their next round of shots. At around 16 weeks, your veterinarian will recommend a rabies virus. This is given at this age because dogs are outside more often, where they can contract rabies from other animals. While the other vaccines focus on protecting your pet, Arkansas law requires a licensed veterinarian to administer a rabies shot to dogs and cats to protect the general population. 

12-16 Months

At about one year of age, your puppy should receive another round of DHPP and rabies vaccinations. From there, they will need the DHPP vaccine every one to two years and a rabies booster every one to three years. This can differ depending on your dog, so ask a veterinarian about a recommended schedule. They might also advise your dog to get booster shots for bordetella, influenza, and leptospirosis.

 

When you need help keeping your animal companions healthy, contact Pearson Animal Clinic. These veterinarians provide cat and dog vaccinations along with routine pet exams to residents throughout Russellville, AR. Call (479) 968-3535 to book an appointment for your furry friend's next round of vaccines, and visit the website to learn more about pet care services.

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