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Dogs are like humans in so many ways. They like to play; they love cuddles, and they love to explore their environment. One important way that dogs are like humans is that they need to be vaccinated against diseases. This usually happens at the start of their life, with boosters after they are 15 months old. In this post, we’ll outline how often your dogs need shots and when exactly should they be administered.

How often should my puppy have shots?

At Brighton Veterinary Hospital our standard vaccination protocol includes protection against Canine Distemper, Hepatitis and Parvo viruses – which are all severe, life-threatening diseases. Our vaccines also protect against Bordetella and Parainfluenza Virus, which are the two components of “Kennel Cough”. Together, these make up the C5 vaccine.
Occasionally some owners will request just a C3 vaccine which provides protection against Canine Distemper, Hepatitis and Parvo viruses and not Kennel Cough, however this is not our recommended vaccination approach as we do see Kennel Cough cases that attend Brighton Veterinary Hospital, and they are much more severe in unvaccinated dogs. Kennel Cough is an airborne disease that can be transmitted at dog parks, beaches and even from a neighbour’s dog. It is sometimes misunderstood to be a disease that is only contracted by dogs when they visit a kennel. This unfortunately is not the case, and it is a disease that needs to be vaccinated against.

Your puppy will require a C5 vaccine:

  • First vaccination at 6-8 weeks old (typically performed by the breeder or shelter)
  • Second vaccination at 10 weeks old*
  • Third Booster at 14-16 weeks old
  • Final Booster at 15 months of age
  • The second vaccination is required at 10 weeks of age not one month after the puppy’s vaccination as is sometimes suggested.

When can my puppy socialise with other dogs?

We are confident it is safe for you to socialise your puppy in a controlled environment, ten days after their second vaccination. Full socialisation can commence 10 days after their third booster. This would include being able to visit dog parks, beaches, and busy pet environments.

How often should my adult dog have shots?

As an adult dog, your dog will require booster vaccinations annually to maintain protection against these diseases. These annual visits are also a good opportunity for our vets to give your pet a routine health check.

Why does my dog need shots?

Dogs, just like people, can catch diseases and fall ill. Pet vaccines provide immunity from a range of infectious diseases which can affect both humans and animals. Receiving these vaccines is vital for your fur baby’s healthy development into adulthood and wellbeing throughout their life.

Now that you know how often your dog should be vaccinated, it’s time to book an appointment with the dog doctors at Brighton Veterinary Hospital. While nobody enjoys taking their pet in for shots, the highly trained vets at Brighton Veterinary Hospital will ensure that vaccines are administered as quickly and painlessly as possible. You can make a veterinary appointment online at www.brightonvethospital.com.au

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