Vaccines for Puppies & Dogs

Here at Bridgwater Veterinary Hospital and Wellness Centre we can help you ward off diseases in your puppies and dogs through vaccinations. Vaccinations keep your furry friend healthy and can also keep your household safe. Our hospital administers both core and non-core vaccines to pet companions.

What are core and non-core vaccines in puppies and dogs?

Core vaccines are considered essential due to the severity of the disease your pet may develop without them. Core vaccinations are also determined by the level of transmission between other dogs and humans. Some of the core vaccines in canines are:

1. Rabies
2. Distemper/Parvo (DHPP)
3. Bordetella

Non-core vaccinations are also important to your pet’s life. These vaccines are needed based on the environment or lifestyle that your pet is exposed to. Non-core vaccines include:

1. Leptospirosis
2. Lyme
3. Influenza

Our veterinarians can help you determine which vaccinations your pet needs to stay healthy. Schedule an appointment with us at 204-452-0911 to get your pet vaccinated.

When should my puppy or dog be vaccinated?

As a rule of thumb, puppies begin their round of vaccinations between 6 and 8 weeks. These rounds of vaccinations are carried out every three weeks until the pup is 4-months-old. Our veterinarians will suggest a vaccination schedule for your pet. Here’s a general timeline of which shots your puppies should be receiving during the weekly timeframes:

6-10 weeks: Bordetella, DHPP
11-14 weeks: DHPP, Leptospirosis, Influenza, Lyme disease
15-16 weeks: DHPP, Leptospirosis, Rabies, Influenza, Lyme disease

Adult dogs start booster shots when they have completed their last round of puppy vaccines. The vaccines your pet receives are effective for a certain amount of time, hence our veterinarians may recommend boosting some core and non-care shots based on the lifestyle of your pet. Rabies vaccinations are effective for three years, while DHPP, leptospirosis, canine influenza and Lyme disease are effective for one year. The bordetella vaccine is effective for 6 to 12 months.

What should I expect after my puppy/dog is vaccinated?

Some pets experience some side effects after being vaccinated. The effects are very minor and short-lived. Some possible side effects include: loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea and swelling where they received the vaccine. These side effects may last up to 48 hours. Our team is here to answer any questions and provide solutions to any side effects your pet may be experiencing.