When you bring a new dog home, there are several steps you must take to ensure they grow up healthy and strong, from puppy shots to proper nutrition. Some of these vaccinations are required by the state, like rabies, while others are recommended, like the seasonal flu. Your veterinarian will discuss all these shots with you, but here are four of the most important.

4 Puppy Shots Your Veterinarian Will Administer

1. Canine Distemper

This nasty and contagious disease attacks your dog’s gastrointestinal, nervous, and respiratory systems. It can cause a host of complications, including fever, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, seizures, and death. Because there is no cure for canine distemper, this puppy shot is generally given first, between six and eight weeks of age.

2. Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that can produce anxiety, excessive saliva, headaches, aggression, paralysis, and eventually death. Most frequently transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, it can also be transferred to humans. The vaccination is typically given between 12-24 weeks of age.

3. Parvovirus

A highly contagious virus that affects dogs of all ages, parvo expresses itself in several forms including a lack of appetite, bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and lethargy. Death can occur quickly—within 48-72 hours—if not treated. A veterinarian typically recommends immunizing dogs between 10-12 weeks of age.

4. Canine Hepatitis

This viral infection is easily spread and can damage your dog’s kidneys, liver, spleen, and lungs.  This disease is unrelated to the human form of the virus but can cause fever, congestion, jaundice, an enlarged stomach, and severe abdominal pain. While many healthy adult animals can overcome the mild forms of this virus, it can result in death for younger or senior dogs.

The veterinarians at A-4 Animal Hospital in Lincoln, NE, understand the importance of finding the right professional to monitor your new dog’s puppy shots, checkups, and overall wellness needs. That’s why they offer several treatment options, from emergency services to house calls. To learn more about what this team of expert veterinarians can do to keep your pet healthy, visit them online or call (402) 475-2282.