VACCINATIONS

Serious canine diseases such as rabies, distemper, provirus, hepatitis and leptospirosis can be prevented by having your dog vaccinated regularly by a veterinarian.  These five diseases are extremely dangerous and potentially fatal to your dog and some are dangerous and potentially fatal to your dog and some are dangerous to humans as well.  A vaccination is also available for kennel cough, a respiratory problem which generally affects young dogs.  While not life threatening in itself, kennel cough is very stressful and can lead to other, more serious illnesses.

A puppy's first vaccinations should ideally take place at five to six weeks of age but if this is not possible, they can be started at eight to nine weeks of age.  Over a period of several weeks, a dog should receive a series of vaccinations to build his immunity to disease.  Afterward, yearly booster shots to provide ongoing protection are imperative throughout life.  Be sure that you understand, especially in the crucial vaccination series during puppy hood, when your dog needs to return to the veterinarian for his next vaccination.  And during that vulnerable time when he is waiting to completer the vaccination program, do not allow him to play with strange dogs or visit public parks or similar places where he may be exposed to disease before immunity is insured.