Puppy vaccines that typically are given include Distemper/Hepatitis/Parvo/Parainfluenza (DHPP), and Bordetella protects your pup against kennel cough, which is highly recommended if your dog will be boarded or just out with his pals. Once your puppy is four months old it is time for her Rabies shot. A complete set of each of these vaccines is highly recommended.
In fact, without all but the Rabies shot, your puppy cannot attend classes here at Jump Start. At one year of age, it is time for your puppy to have boosters of the DHPP and at a year and four months, a second Rabies shot is in order. While law requires a Rabies booster every three years, the other vaccines should be on a schedule that is agreed upon between you and your veterinarian. The protocol for vaccinations has changed in recent years and some vets are now doing “titers” which test for the level of immunological response to various viral diseases before administering vaccines that may not be necessary. It may happen that your puppy has a slight reaction to the shots such as fever, swelling or tenderness. Remember that she just got a quick blast of the disease that is being vaccinated against and that some reaction can be expected. If it is severe, call the vet immediately!
Image courtesy of dreamstime.com