Puppy Vaccination Schedule

Vaccines are available for several important infectious diseases in puppies and dogs:

• Canine Parvovirus
  A severe and frequently fatal cause of gastroenteritis. Disease is more common and severe in young puppies, but unvaccinated dogs of all ages can be infected.
   
• Canine Distemper Virus
  A highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal and central nervous system. Infected dogs may develop a range of signs including fever, coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, vomiting, diarrhoea and seizures.
   
• Infectious Canine Hepatitis
  An often fatal viral disease affecting the liver. Signs may include fever, depression, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhoea. In severe cases death can occur rapidly within 24 to 48 hours.
   
• Leptospirosis
  A bacterial disease which can affect many different species, including dogs and humans. Infected dogs may develop problems such as liver disease, kidney disease and bleeding disorders.
   
• Canine Coronavirus
  A highly contagious virus which may result in lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea and dehydration. In general, disease in young dogs is more severe than in adults
   
• Canine Cough
  A common infectious disease which can be easily spread wherever dogs congregate. Signs include a dry hacking cough which may persist for several weeks. Organisms which can cause canine cough include Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus.

Very young puppies are usually protected against major infectious diseases by antibodies passed through their mother’s milk. However, this immunity is temporary. Puppies should begin a course of vaccinations - typically starting at around 6 weeks of age - to ensure ongoing protection. Your veterinarian will tailor the vaccination program based on your puppy's lifestyle and local disease risks.

It's a common misconception that vaccinating a puppy once provides lifelong immunity. Unfortunately, this is not the case. To maintain protection, regular booster vaccinations are essential throughout adulthood. These boosters stimulate the immune system, extending protection for an additional period. Without them, your dog’s immunity may decline, leaving them vulnerable to serious illness. Your veterinarian will recommend an appropriate booster schedule to keep your dog protected at every stage of life.