Vaccinations

A basic vaccination series should be a part of your puppy’s schedule during the first four months. A combination vaccine is given once a month from two months through four months and then once annually.

It protects your puppy from leading infections and illnesses, including:

• Distemper
• Hepatitis
• Leptospirosis
• Parvovirus
• Parainfluenza

If you acquired a dog that is older than four months and that has not been vaccinated, the vet will use a different protocol — two vaccinations given two to three weeks apart and then annual vaccinations.

​Your dog will also need a rabies vaccination. However, laws around the country differ about when this vaccination must be given, so check with your vet about scheduling a rabies vaccination for your dog. Your vet can also tell you about other vaccinations that may be appropriate depending on where you live.