Within their first year, puppies need quite a few visits to the animal hospital for pet vaccinations. These shots will set your pup up for a longer, healthier life free of numerous diseases. But what vaccinations are necessary, and which are only recommended for certain pets

? The following guide explores core and non-core vaccines.

What Pet Vaccinations Do Puppies Need?

1. Distemper

Canine distemper is a highly contagious, untreatable, and deadly virus that can spread between dogs and certain wild animals. The infection targets the gastrointestinal, nervous, and respiratory systems. Puppies should start this vaccine between 6 – 8 weeks of age, followed by additional shots every 3 to 4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. A yearly booster is also recommended.

2. Parvovirus

All unvaccinated dogs are susceptible to parvo, but puppies are especially vulnerable. This rapidly developing gastrointestinal virus results in fever, vomiting, loss of appetite, bloody diarrhea, and severe dehydration. Parvovirus is typically fatal if left untreated. Like distemper, the pet vaccination for parvo is given every 3 to 4 weeks between 6 and 16 weeks of age.

3. Adenovirus

Dogs contract adenovirus through contact with infected saliva, urine, and feces. The disease causes infectious hepatitis and attacks the kidneys, liver, spleen, lungs, and eyes. Affected dogs may experience fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, and abdominal pain. The adenovirus vaccine is generally taken in combination with distemper, parvovirus, and parainfluenza in the DHPP shot.

4. Rabies

Rabies is an untreatable neurological disease that is always fatal. The virus can spread to all mammals, and pet vaccination is the only method of prevention. Symptoms include excessive drooling, hallucinations, paralysis, anxiety, and hydrophobia. Your puppy should get their first shot around 15-16 weeks of age. They’ll receive a booster the next year, then additional boosters every one to three years.

5. Non-Core Vaccines

Certain non-core vaccines will be recommended for your puppy depending on the likelihood of infection. The Lyme disease vaccine, for instance, is largely endorsed in areas with a high deer tick population. Kennel cough (bordetellosis) commonly spreads in environments where dogs are kept close together, while leptospirosis is most often contracted from infected urine, standing water, mud, and soil. Your veterinarian will explain which non-core vaccines your puppy should receive.

Protect your puppy from preventable, life-threatening diseases with pet vaccinations. The team at O’Fallon Veterinary Medical Center prioritizes preventative care, so your puppy’s first visit will include a full physical examination, lab work, vaccinations, and spaying or neutering (if applicable) to ensure they have a clean bill of health. Pets in the St. Charles County, MO area all benefit from personalized pet care and treatments centered around their needs. Visit their website for more information on available veterinary services. To set up your puppy’s appointment, call (636) 272-3100 today.