Vaccinations for Puppies and Dogs

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect your pet against infectious diseases. Since the benefits far outweigh any risk, it’d be doggone silly to not get your canine vaccinated!

What vaccines are available for dogs?

All dogs should receive the core DHPP vaccine. It protects against four serious diseases: distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and parainfluenza virus.

It is also recommended to vaccinate your dog against rabies because this deadly disease can be spread to humans. Rabies vaccines are required before travelling abroad.

Your dog can also be vaccinated against leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that affects the kidneys and liver and that is passed through water contaminated by the urine of wild animals.

The Lyme disease vaccine is recommended for dogs that play in wooded areas and tall grass, as ticks are widespread in this type of environment.

The Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine protects your pet from airborne nasal and oral discharge. Kennels and grooming salons often require this vaccine. We also highly recommend this vaccine if your pet plays in dog parks.

What vaccines does my dog need?

Our veterinary team will evaluate your dog’s lifestyle to determine what vaccines they need. For example, a dog that lives in the city won’t need the same vaccines as a dog that plays in the woods.

What is the vaccination schedule for a puppy?

Puppies must be vaccinated at 2, 3 and 4 months old. Up to this point, puppies are protected by maternal antibodies from their mother’s milk. This immunity decreases over time, however, which is why it’s so important to get your pup vaccinated.

How often does my adult dog need to be vaccinated?

After the initial round of puppy vaccines, we recommend getting your adult dog booster shots when they turn one. Your dog will then receive annual booster shots for Lyme disease, kennel cough and leptospirosis. They should get core vaccine and rabies vaccine boosters every 3 years.