Vaccines for Puppies & Dogs

To ensure the long and healthy life of your new pet, it is important to vaccinate them. Puppies have very limited immunity after weaning, leaving them vulnerable to various diseases. Even adult dogs need vaccinations to maintain their protection against diseases, as the immunity provided by vaccines is not lifelong. To learn more about their vaccine schedule, contact us at 250-727-2125.

Which vaccines are recommended for puppies?

Our veterinary clinic offers core vaccines for dogs that are essential for protecting them against fatal diseases, including Rabies, which can also affect humans. Puppies are especially vulnerable as they only have temporary immunity from their mother, which lasts for a few weeks. Therefore, we highly recommend the following vaccines for puppies:

• DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza)
• Rabies

How often should my pet be vaccinated?

To ensure your puppy's protection against diseases, it is recommended to begin vaccinating them between 6 to 12 weeks of age, continuing until they are 4 months old. After completing their initial series of vaccinations, your veterinarian will advise you to give them booster shots every 1 to 3 years. It's crucial to maintain regular vaccinations for your pet as skipping them may leave them susceptible to diseases, and they may need to start the vaccination process again to establish immunity.

Are vaccines safe?

Indeed, vaccines have been thoroughly studied and tested to ensure their safety for pets. However, in rare cases, pets may experience a reaction after being vaccinated. Although these reactions are generally mild and temporary, they can include symptoms such as a fever, loss of appetite, swelling around the injection site, or fatigue. Typically, these reactions subside within 48 hours.