Just as the needs of infants are different than those of teen-agers, puppies need different care than their older counterparts. Because of their size, they are much more susceptible to dehydration and other ailments. While some conditions may only cause discomfort in older animals, in young animals they can actually cause death.
When should my puppy have its first checkup?
New puppies should receive their first checkup 3-5 days after arriving at your home. This gives them several days to adjust to their surroundings and you, as their new owner, a chance to observe them for any problems. Of course, if you see problems, have us check these out immediately. Bring any vaccine history or medical records along so we can review them and begin a medical health program for your pet. Also bring a stool specimen so we can check for internal parasites.
What are vaccines and what do they do?
Vaccines are given to young puppies to stimulate their immune systems to form antibodies and protect against disease. A young puppy will receive some protection through the mother’s milk, but this is only temporary. A series of vaccines is necessary to ensure that your puppy’s immunity is sufficient to protect it against disease.
When should my puppy begin a health program?
Ideally, puppies should begin a health program while still with the mother at 2-4 weeks of age. They should be checked for intestinal parasites and dewormed. Vaccinations and physical exams should generally begin at six to eight weeks of age and should be repeated at 3-4 week intervals until about 16-18 weeks of age. Periodic checks for intestinal worms should be performed during this time.
What vaccinations will my puppy receive?
Your puppy’s vaccine program will be based on his age, previous vaccine history, and lifestyle.
The main vaccine is known as “Distemper/Parvo” vaccine or DA2PP. This is actually a combination vaccine to protect against the following diseases:
- Distemper—a viral disease that is often fatal in puppies. It is characterized by respiratory distress, coughing and seizures and is highly contagious.
- Hepatitis (adenovirus)—a viral disease spread through urine. It causes respiratory and liver problems.
- Parainfluenza—a respiratory infection that is often involved with kennel cough.
- Parvovirus—a severe intestinal viral disease characterized by vomiting and bloody diarrhea. It is often fatal and highly contagious.
Rabies—your puppy will also receive a rabies vaccine at 3-4 months of age. Rabies is always fatal, is a public health concern, and GA law requires all domestic animals be vaccinated for Rabies.
Other vaccines which may be recommended for your pet include:
- Bordetella—known as kennel cough or tracheobronchitis. It is highly contagious and often difficult to treat. It is recommended for all puppies and adult dogs that are at higher risk such as those who visit boarding kennels, dog shows, obedience schools, daycare, grooming facilities, dog parks, and pet stores.
- Lyme disease—a tick-borne disease more prevalent in the northeast states recommended for hunting dogs or dogs that spend time in the woods or other tick infested areas.
- Leptospirosis—a bacterial infection that may cause permanent kidney damage. This vaccine is not given to every dog; it is only given to dogs that are at specific risk to the disease.
What types of parasites are of concern?
There are many types of intestinal parasites. These include roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms and coccidia. Most puppies will have some type of parasite and these are treated routinely. Parasites can cause diarrhea, anemia, and poor growth or even death in puppies with really high burden. Some of the most common parasites in animals are contagious to people especially children and can be very harmful.
Heartworms are also of major concern. They are transmitted by mosquitoes. Undetected or untreated they can lead to heart failure, lung and liver problems and death. Generally, puppies are placed on monthly medication by 6-12 weeks of age to prevent heartworms. A blood test should be performed annually for early detection as occasionally infestation may still occur. This annual test is required in order to safely keep your pet on heartworm medication year round.
What can I do to ensure good health for my pet?
It is important to feed your puppy a high quality puppy food appropriate for his or her breed. Avoid table food as it causes intestinal problems and picky eaters. Keep plenty of fresh water available at all times.
What about spaying or neutering my pet?
Altered pets live longer, happier lives. If you are not going to be breeding your pet (which is the case for most animals), we recommend spaying or neutering by six months of age. Your pet will generally have a better temperament and have fewer health problems if this is done at an early age. Also as a responsible pet owner, you will not be contributing to the over-population of unwanted pets that are euthanized and destroyed each year. Statistics have shown that animals treated as hit by car victims are often unaltered animals because they are more likely to roam away from home.
You have already taken the first step towards the good health of your puppy by visiting your veterinarian. Routine veterinary health care, annual vaccinations and physical exams, as well as diligent administration of heartworm preventative can all help ensure a healthy pet. It is far less expensive and much easier to prevent disease than it is to treat it.
Enjoy your new puppy and friend. They don’t ask for much, and give so much in return. If at any time you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call us.