Vaccinations for Puppies and Dogs
Vaccines give protection from preventable illnesses in humans and our pets. As their guardian it is your duty to have your canine pal vaccinated from the moment they are in your care. Some of the illnesses your pet may suffer from without a vaccine can spread easily and can even be fatal. To prevent the spread of diseases, some vaccines are mandated by law, while others aren’t. To cater to your individual pet, speak with a veterinarian to have them determine which vaccines your pet needs. Simply call us at
250.724.4444 to book your appointment.
Which vaccines are mandatory?
The vaccines that are mandatory are called core vaccines. Core vaccines for puppies and dogs include: Rabies (legally required), Bordetella and distemper/parvovirus (DHPP). Without these vaccines your pet may develop serious diseases which have a high possibility of transmission to other animals.
What other vaccines may be recommended for my pet?
There are other vaccines that may be beneficial to your pet as they are exposed to more risk. Even though non-core vaccines are not required by law your pet may still need them. If your pet has a lifestyle or lives in an environment that exposes them to parasites and diseases, our veterinarians may recommend these shots. The non-core vaccines we may recommend are Lyme, Leptospirosis, Canine Influenza and Rattlesnake.
When should my puppy or dog be vaccinated?
Our team will create a vaccination schedule for your furry friend after their first checkup. We generally begin puppy vaccinations around 6 to 8-weeks-old. This round of vaccines are given every three weeks until your puppy is 4-months-old.
Once the puppy series is completed, adult dogs can receive their booster shots. Our veterinarians recommend booster shots as vaccines are effective for a certain amount of time. Most vaccines are effective for one year except for Rabies and Bordetella. Your dog needs a Rabies booster shot every three years and a booster for Bordetella every 6 to 12 months.
What happens after my puppy/dog is vaccinated?
It’s normal for some pets to experience some mild side effects after getting a vaccine. Some symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and swelling at the injection site. These side effects are short-lived and most pets are back to their normal selves after 48 hours. If you are concerned about any side effects, you can always call our veterinarians.
