Vaccines for Puppies & Dogs

Vaccinating your dog or puppy helps keep them healthy and prevent premature death. Infectious diseases are some of the most frequent causes of death. Regularly vaccinating your pet therefore helps control the spread of these diseases.

What is the DHPP vaccine?

DHPP is a core vaccine for dogs. It protects against four diseases:

D: distemper, a contagious disease caused by a virus that can affect the neurological, digestive and respiratory systems

H: hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver

P: parainfluenza, a highly contagious respiratory virus

P: parvovirus, a virus that can cause high fever, vomiting, diarrhea and serious dehydration

Are there vaccines other than the DHPP?

Absolutely. Depending on your dog’s lifestyle, the vet may also recommend vaccinating against rabies, Lyme disease, kennel cough (Bordetella) and leptospirosis.

What is your schedule for first vaccinations for puppies?

Puppies are first vaccinated at two months, then two boosters are required four and eight weeks later. Before this age, puppies are protected by the antibodies in maternal milk.

When can my pet receive the rabies vaccine?

Dogs and puppies can receive the rabies vaccine as of three months of age.

Could my pet have a severe allergic reaction to vaccines?

Most pets experience almost no side effects from vaccines. Severe allergic reactions (swelling, hives, respiratory issues) are very rare. Generally, you will notice that your pet has less energy than usual, decreased appetite and that the injection area seems a bit sore.