Vaccines for Puppies & Dogs

Congratulations on welcoming an adorable canine friend into your home! Enjoy this precious phase of their life with all the cuddles and photo-ops you can muster. Don’t forget that strengthening their immunity with vaccines is also another essential thing that should be on your To Do List. With the help of our team, you can be sure your puppy is getting the right vaccinations, and that they never miss a single dose not only at this stage of life, but as they grow into adulthood! Reach out to us at 204-261-7376 for more details on our vaccination services.

What vaccines do puppies need?

Even if you are not yet taking your pup outside, or exposing them to other animals and people, their immunity is still weak and vulnerable. This is why we recommend puppies be vaccinated as early as 6-weeks-old. If you recently adopted a puppy and are unsure if they are vaccinated, simply bring them in for a veterinary exam so our doctors can assess them. Vaccines are divided into two categories: core and non-core. Core vaccines are strongly recommended, with some being mandatory by law (e.g. rabies). Non-core vaccines are optional and suggested by our doctors based on your pet’s lifestyle. For example, a hunting dog will have a different set of vaccines compared with a dog who spends most of their time on your comfy couch.

• Core Vaccines: Rabies, Canine hepatitis, Distemper, Canine parpovirus
• Non-Core Vaccines: Kennel Cough, Leptospira bacteria, Borrelia burgdorferi

Do dogs still need vaccines even if they were vaccinated as puppies?

Yes. Unlike humans, vaccinations are usually not a “one-time” ordeal for our dogs and other furry friends. Depending on the specific vaccine in question, your dog will need booster shots at least once per year or once every 3 years throughout their life. Although each patient is different, below is what an average vaccination schedule will look like for a fully-grown dog:

• Once every 3 years:
  – Rabies, Distemper, Parvovirus, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza (non-core),
• Once per year:
  – Bordetella/Kennel Cough (boosters every 6 months may be needed if you live in high-risk environment), Lyme disease (usually given before start of tick season), Leptospirosis