Vaccines for Puppies & Dogs

Vaccines are the first form of protection you can give your loyal companion. By improving their immunity you prevent them from catching diseases that have the potential to cause irreparable harm. At our hospital, we understand the importance of vaccines and so we work with pet parents to determine the right vaccines for their individual pets.

Which vaccines are required by law?

The vaccines required by law fall under the category of core vaccines. Core vaccines are deemed essential because without them your pet may develop life-threatening diseases which have a high transmission rate. The core vaccines that your pet needs are Rabies and Distemper/parvovirus (DHPP).

What other vaccines might my puppy/dog need?

Non-core vaccines are also important vaccines based on the pet’s individual needs. These shots are recommended based on the exposure risks that a pet has in their environment. Non-core vaccines include Influenza, Bordetella, Leptospirosis and Lyme. If you’re unsure about which non-core vaccines your pet needs, please feel free to reach out to us at 519-971-3100.

When should my puppy or dog be vaccinated?

Puppies should begin their first vaccines when they are 6 to 8-weeks-old. This is usually for their distemper and parvovirus shots. Your puppy will receive a series of vaccines until they are 16-weeks-old.

Once your pet has completed their puppy round of vaccines they will need boosters. Booster shots will be administered based on how long the initial shot is effective. Rabies vaccines last up to three years, Bordetella is effective for 6 to 12 months, while Lyme, DHPP, Leptospirosis last for one year. To ensure your pet is kept up-to-date with their boosters, our team keeps a record of their shots and will inform you when they are due for one.