What Vaccines Do Puppies Get?
Puppies are one of the most adorable additions to any family, but their health should always be a top priority. One of the most important aspects of puppy care is ensuring they receive the appropriate vaccinations to protect them from various diseases. In this article, we will discuss the vaccines that puppies typically get and why they are crucial for their well-being.
The first set of vaccinations that puppies receive is called the “core vaccines.” These vaccines are considered essential for all dogs, regardless of their lifestyle or environment. The core vaccines include:
1. Canine Distemper: This vaccine protects against canine distemper, a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
2. Parvovirus: Parvovirus is a serious and often fatal disease that primarily affects puppies and unvaccinated dogs. It can lead to severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
3. Canine Hepatitis: This vaccine protects against canine hepatitis, a viral disease that can cause liver inflammation, jaundice, and even death.
4. Canine Parainfluenza: Parainfluenza is a respiratory disease that can lead to severe coughing, sneezing, and pneumonia in dogs.
In addition to the core vaccines, puppies may also receive non-core vaccines depending on their risk factors. These vaccines include:
1. Rabies: Rabies is a fatal disease that affects the nervous system and is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. It is crucial for all dogs to be vaccinated against rabies to protect both the dog and the human population.
2. Leptospirosis: This vaccine protects against leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that can be transmitted through contaminated water or soil. It is especially important for dogs that have access to outdoor environments.
3. Bordetella: Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium that can cause kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease. This vaccine is recommended for dogs that are frequently around other dogs, such as those in dog parks, kennels, or shelters.
4. Lyme Disease: This vaccine protects against Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks. It is recommended for dogs that live in areas where ticks are prevalent.
It is essential to follow the vaccination schedule recommended by your veterinarian. Puppies typically receive their first set of core vaccines at around 6-8 weeks of age, followed by booster shots at 12 weeks, 16 weeks, and sometimes at 20 weeks. Non-core vaccines may be given at different intervals, depending on the specific risk factors for your puppy.
In conclusion, what vaccines do puppies get? Puppies should receive core vaccines to protect against distemper, parvovirus, canine hepatitis, and canine parainfluenza. Depending on their risk factors, they may also need non-core vaccines for rabies, leptospirosis, bordetella, and Lyme disease. By following the recommended vaccination schedule, you can help ensure your puppy grows up healthy and protected from potentially life-threatening diseases.
