Vaccine Protocol
8 weeks - DAPPV, Bordetella
12 weeks - DAPPv w/ Leptospirosis, Rabies 1 year (per Pennsylvania state law), Lyme
16 weeks - DAPPv w/ Leptospirosis Booster, Lyme Booster, Influenza
20 weeks - Influenza Booster
A fecal test is recommended at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age then at their yearly wellness exam.
After 1st year of age, Dappv and Rabies vaccines are given every 3 years. Lyme, Lepto, Bordetella, and Influenza are given yearly.
A 4dx test (blood test that tests for Heartworm/Lyme/Ehrlichia and Anaplasmosis) and a Fecal Test (which tests for intestinal parasites) are recommended yearly starting at 1yr of age.
DAPPv: Commonly called the “distemper shot,” this combination vaccine protects against five diseases: canine Distemper, Adenovirus, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus. These highly contagious viruses can cause various gastrointestinal and respiratory issues.
Rabies: Transmissible to people, this virus causes brain and spinal cord inflammation and eventually death. It is transmitted via saliva from infected animals. Rabies is almost always fatal.
Leptospirosis: Transmissible to people, this disease is spread by coming into contact with infected urine, bite wounds, predation of wildlife, contaminated water or soil. The bacteria can cause various symptoms which can lead to acute kidney and liver injury .
Lyme: Spread by bites from ticks infected with the bacteria Borrelia. The infection can cause an array of symptoms from lethargy , painful joints to kidney injury.
Bordetella: A highly contagious virus causing “kennel cough” a potentially serious respiratory infection.
Canine influenza: (H3N2 & H3N8) Viruses that cause a highly contagious respiratory disease. Recommended if your dog is frequently exposed to other dogs.
What to expect after your puppy's vaccines
Some puppies experience no side effects at all. Some may experience mild side effects such as decreased physical exercise, or pain at the injection site. These side effects should subside in 1-2 days. More severe side effects (uncommon reactions) include vomiting, diarrhea, swelling of the muzzle/face, and hives. If any of these side effects occur, call our office as soon as you notice them.
Spay/Neuter
Females should be spayed at 6 months of age. We recommend spaying before the first heat cycle, which typically happens around 7-8 months.
Males should be neutered between 6-12 months.
Pre-Anesthetic blood work is performed 1 to 8 weeks before surgery is scheduled.
Microchipping
A microchip is a permanent ID that links your pet to you. A Home Again microchip is placed between your pets shoulder blades at time of spay/neuter. Once your pet receives a microchip, you can apply for a lifetime dog license.
Brushing Your Puppy's Teeth
At home, practice opening your pet’s mouth and lift your pet’s lips on a daily basis. After they are comfortable with that sensation, start rubbing your fingers on their gums and teeth on a daily basis. We offer toothpaste specific for pets (Petsmile), dental treats and dental diets. Please wait until adult teeth are present before brushing. Appropriate chew toys can also help maintain your pet’s oral health, these can be found on the VOHC website (Veterinary Oral Health Council). Toys should be made from material that you can indent with your thumb nail. If the toy is too hard, your pet could be at risk for fracturing teeth.
Acceptable toys:
Kong
West Paw
Planet dog
Goughnuts
Flea/Tick and Heartworm Prevention
Credelio is an oral flea and tick prevention that is administered to your dog monthly. Used for dogs and puppies 8 weeks and older.
Bravecto is an oral flea and tick prevention that is administered to your dog every 3 months. Used for dogs and puppies 6 months and older.
Interceptor Plus is an oral heartworm prevention that is administered to your dog monthly. This also treats and controls intestinal parasites, including roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms. Used for dogs and puppies 6 weeks and older.
Simparica Trio is an oral flea/tick and heartworm prevention that is administered to your dog monthly. Used for dogs and puppies 8 weeks and older.
It is important to keep your puppy on Flea/Tick and Heartworm prevention year round. We will perform a heartworm test at their first annual visit.
Grooming
Begin grooming early so your puppy gets used to being handled by you and other people (veterinarians and groomers). Using a soft bristle brush, gently stroke his back a few times; try brushing while the puppy is drowsy in your lap. To desensitize the feet for nail trimming, start by picking up one of your dog’s paws and gently hold it for a few seconds, touching their toes and nails. Gradually, try trimming a nail or two while giving treats.
Pet Insurance
Trupanion
Embrace
Nationwide
Healthy Paws
Fetch
Lemonade
Diets
Veterinary recommended diets:
Hill’s Science Diet
Purina Pro Plan
Purina One
Royal Canin
Iams/Eukanuba
Feeding instructions differ by brand and can be found on the bag.