Now Open and Accepting New Patients!
Dog Vaccinations in Fishers
At Fishers Animal Hospital, we're more than just your local veterinary clinic - we're committed partners in safeguarding your dog's health and happiness. Our experienced team creates personalized vaccination plans to ensure your dog gets the precise protection they need to thrive.
When Should Puppies Be Dewormed?
When Should Puppies Be Dewormed?
Puppies should be dewormed starting around 2-3 weeks of age, with deworming treatments repeated every 2-4 weeks until they are 12 weeks old. This helps eliminate common intestinal parasites that can be passed from the mother dog to her litter. Your veterinarian will recommend an appropriate deworming schedule and medications based on your puppy's risk factors.
Essential Vaccines Recommended for Puppies and Dogs
Essential Vaccines Recommended for Puppies and Dogs
The following are the core vaccinations that we recommend for puppies and dogs:
- Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) Vaccine: Protects against a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease affecting multiple body systems. Vaccination is the best defense.
- Canine Parvovirus (CPV) Vaccine: Guards against a severe, often fatal gastrointestinal disease, particularly dangerous for puppies.
- Canine Adenovirus-2 (CAV-2) Vaccine: Provides protection against infectious canine hepatitis and contributes to preventing respiratory disease.
- Rabies Virus Vaccine: This crucial vaccine fights against a fatal nervous system disease transmissible to humans and is required by law in most areas.
- Canine Parainfluenza Virus Vaccine: This vaccine protects against a respiratory virus contributing to kennel cough. It is often included in combination vaccines.
Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs
Although these are not considered core vaccines, they are equally as important for your pup’s health, especially for dogs in certain geographical areas or with potential health risk factors.
- Bordetella Bronchiseptica Vaccine: This vaccine is advisable if your dog frequents boarding facilities and dog parks or socializes frequently with other dogs. It prevents a common cause of kennel cough.
- Leptospirosis Vaccine: This vaccine protects against a bacterial disease that causes kidney and liver damage. It is recommended for dogs with potential wildlife exposure.
- Lyme Disease Vaccine: Guards against a tick-borne disease causing joint pain and kidney problems, advised for dogs in high-risk areas.
The Importance of Consistent Vaccine Schedules
The Importance of Consistent Vaccine Schedules
Maintaining a consistent vaccination schedule is crucial for ensuring your dog's ongoing protection against serious diseases. Vaccines stimulate the immune system to create antibodies, but this protection can wane over time, making regular boosters essential to maintain immunity. It's important to follow the specific schedule recommended by your veterinarian, as vaccination needs can vary based on factors such as your dog's age, health status, lifestyle, and local disease risks.
When Should I Schedule a Vaccine Appointment for my Puppy?
When Should I Schedule a Vaccine Appointment for my Puppy?
Puppy vaccinations typically begin around 6 to 8 weeks of age, with a series of vaccines given every 3 to 4 weeks until the puppy is about 16 weeks old. It's best to schedule your first appointment soon after bringing your new puppy home, or even before, to ensure they start their vaccination series on time. Your veterinarian will provide a specific schedule tailored to your puppy's needs after a thorough examination.
Things to Look For, Post-Vaccination Appointment
Things to Look For, Post-Vaccination Appointment
While vaccines are generally safe and reactions are rare, it's important to monitor your dog after vaccination. Most dogs experience no side effects or only mild, short-lived symptoms. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following symptoms, especially if they're severe or persist for more than 24-48 hours:
- Reduced appetite for a day or two
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Swelling at the injection site that increases after 24-48 hours
- Persistent coughing or sneezing
- Itchiness or hives
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Severe swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat
- Collapse or loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Prolonged or severe vomiting or diarrhea
- Lameness or joint pain
- Abdominal pain
- Lethargy or depression lasting more than a day or two
- Behavioral changes
