Canine Care Recommendations
Vaccinations
Puppy vaccine series protects against Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza and Parvovirus (DHLPP). This series is generally given at 6,9,12, and 15 weeks. After the series is completed the DHLPP vaccine is given yearly.
Rabies vaccine is given any time after the age of 12 weeks. The first vaccine is good for one year. Each vaccine after the first protects for three years. Rabies vaccine is required by law for all dogs. Rabies is also needed before county licenses can be purchased.
Bordetella Vaccine is given any time after 6 weeks of age. It requires a series of two vaccines, that are given three weeks apart. The vaccine is given yearly after the initial series. This vaccine is given to dogs that will be in the public. This means dogs that attend training classes, dog shows, grooming facilities or boarding facilities.
Lymes Vaccine is given any time after 12 weeks of age. It requires a series of two vaccines that are given three weeks apart. It is then given yearly. This vaccine is important for dogs that are more frequently exposed to ticks. That means those who hunt or spend time in the woods or tall grasses and weeds. The veterinarian will recommend this vaccine based on need.
Fecal Testing is recommended for all puppies. Fecal testing determines whether your pet has round worms, hook worms, whip worms , giardia and coccidia. If your puppy is diagnosed it may be necessary to have another fecal test to determine is treatment was successful. For adult dogs fecal testing is recommended yearly.
Heartworm Testing is very important. Puppies that were not born during the heartworm season of the year prior (born after October 1st) are not required to have tests the first year. Adult dogs are required to have heartworm test performed yearly. We recommend year round heartworm prevention.
Spaying and Neutering is recommended for dogs 4 months or older that will not be used for breeding. Early spaying and neutering may reduce the risk of some health and behavior problems.
Microchip Identification is strongly recommended for all dogs. The Home Again Microchip is implanted under the skin and is a form of permanent identification. This implant is the size of a grain of rice and contains a unique set of numbers and letters that are registered to the owner.