Vaccinations are a key part of maintaining your puppy’s health. Not only do they prevent detrimental diseases, but they also ensure that specific needs are met. While the process can seem overwhelming, understanding what each vaccine does could put your mind at ease. Consider the following to determine how to provide the proper level of pet care.

4 Common Vaccinations for Puppies

1. Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is extremely contagious. It spreads through bodily excretions and airborne exposure, attacking the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Symptoms include coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, and paralysis. Since there’s no cure, starting vaccinations at six to eight weeks is the best form of pet care and will ensure your pup remains in full health.

2. Canine Hepatitis

Canine hepatitis is another contagious disease that’s preventable by vaccines. However, it tends to focus more on the liver, kidneys, and spleen and can cause sudden fevers and congestion. Neglecting to secure timely DHPP vaccinations by 10 to 12 weeks could result in stomach enlargement, jaundice, and pain in the liver.  

3. Rabies

A viral disease that’s commonly mistaken for distemper, rabies is known for producing irrational behavior. It spreads through direct contact, such as bites and scratches, and can take several days to develop.

Symptoms include excessive drooling, hallucinations, fear of water, and paralysis. Besides treatment after exposure, routine vaccinations from 12 to 14 weeks are the most effective form of pet care and will provide sufficient protection.

4. Canine Parainfluenza

Canine parainfluenza is a viral disease that occurs most often in kennels and other areas where dogs live in close quarters. It spreads through airborne particles and can cause the animals to develop dry coughs, sneezing fits, eye inflammation, and a fever. Since different strains appear each year, setting up regular DHPP vaccinations by 10 to 12 weeks is the best way to prevent contraction.

Ensure your furry friend gets the proper level of pet care by reaching out to Hickman Creek Kennel in Nicholasville, KY. These professionals offer an assortment of pet boarding services and maintain both luxury and standard suites within their spacious facility. They have an outdoor area where the dogs can run and play with 24/7 monitoring by on-site personnel and high-tech security systems. You can learn more about their services by visiting their website. Call (859) 885-3647 to schedule an appointment.