We have four vaccines for dogs:
Rabies |
Rabies is one of the two standard vaccines. It is given for the first time as a one year vaccine. The next and others after that (with proof of prior Rabies) are good for 3 years. |
DHPP+C (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvo virus and Corona) |
DHPP+C (Distemper for short) is the other standard vaccine. It is given as an annual booster. |
Bordetella |
The bordetealla vaccine should be given to dogs who will be boarding, go to training classes, shows, or will be around many other dogs. |
Lymes |
Lymes disease is transmitted by ticks. The disease can cause kidney and musculoskeletal problems. Even if you have been using Advantix, Frontline, or any other tick killer, it is possible for ticks to stay alive long enough on your dog to transmit the disease. |
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Typical Puppy Schedule of Vaccines |
at 8 weeks |
DHPP+C 1 of 3 |
12 weeks |
DHPP+C 2 of 3, Rabies (1 year), +/-Lymes 1 of 2, +/- Bordetella 1 of 2 |
16 weeks |
DHPP+C 3 of 3, +/-Lymes 2 of 2, +/-Bordetella 2 of 2 |
20 weeks |
Parvo only (from the DHPP+C vaccine) |
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Schedule for Dogs 6 Months and Older with No Prior Vaccinations or Unknown History |
Initial |
DHPP+C 1 of 2, Rabies (1 year), +/-Lymes 1 of 2, +/-Bordetella 1 of 2; |
One month later |
DHPP+C 2 of 2, +/-Lymes 2 or 2, +/- Bordetella 2 of 2 |
Adult dogs current on their vaccinations have annual boosters for DHPP+C, Bordetella, and Lymes. Rabies is due every 3 years. |
The first heartworm test is done on your dog's first birthday. Heartworm checks are recommened yearly after that, even if they are steady on monthly heartworm prevention. If you accidentally skip a dose or your dog hasn't been on heartworm prevention, it would be best to (re)start the medicine monthly and then do a heartworm test in 6 months. It can take up to 6 months for there to be enough heartworms in a positive dog's blood for the test to show as positive. |
