Taking your puppy to the veterinarian for their shots is an important part of ensuring they are healthy and safe. However, depending on the circumstances, it can be difficult to stay on top of this routine. So, what happens when you’re late on puppy shots?
It’s important to understand that vaccinations are crucial for your pup’s health. They protect them from preventable illnesses and diseases, many of which can be deadly if left untreated. Without these vaccinations, puppies are susceptible to a variety of ailments—some of which can even cause permanent damage or death.
In this article, we’ll discuss the consequences of being late on puppy shots and provide some tips for making sure your pup is up-to-date with their vaccines. We’ll also discuss a few alternative methods for keeping your pup healthy and safe without relying solely on traditional vaccinations.
The Importance of Puppy Shots
When your puppy is ready to join your family, it’s important to make sure she is vaccinated against common, potentially life-threatening diseases. Known as core vaccines, these shots—which should start as soon as your puppy is acquired and continue every two weeks until 4 months of age—include the DHLPP, which guards against distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza virus, and parvovirus; and rabies.
This regimen of vaccinations provides immunity for your pup. These vaccinations give puppies immunity early so that their bodies can begin to build resistance to these potentially deadly diseases. Making sure that your puppy receives all necessary vaccines on time gives her the best chance of staying healthy and living a long life with you and your family.
What Can Happen if Puppy Shots Are Missed or Late
It’s important to get your puppy their shots in a timely manner, so they have optimal protection against disease. Failing to do so can have serious consequences.
First off, by missing or being late to a shot, your puppy may be more susceptible to certain illnesses and diseases. This is because the vaccine is intended to help stimulate their immune system so it will be better prepared for when it comes in contact with the virus or bacteria. If the vaccine isn’t given on time, it can reduce the effectiveness of their immune system.
Besides being at risk for illnesses, your pup might suffer side effects from receiving vaccines late or out of order. Some reactions include:
- Lumps & bumps
- Sneezing & cold like symptoms
- Lethargy
- Having trouble walking
It’s best to keep up with your puppy shots schedule and speak with your vet if there are any delays or issues that come up.
Common Puppy Vaccinations and Their Timing
When it comes to puppy vaccinations, timing is everything. Puppies should receive their first vaccinations with a series of three to four shots given every three-four weeks (starting at 6-8 weeks of age) and then a booster 1 year after completing the initial series.
Common puppy vaccinations include:
- Distemper: Prevents distemper virus, which affects puppies’ respiratory systems, digestive systems and cause paralysis.
- Parvovirus: This vaccine protects against parvo which is a serious intestinal disease that can be fatal in puppies if left untreated.
- Rabies: This vaccine is required by law in most states and prevents rabies, a viral infection found in mammals that affects their nervous system, leading to paralysis and death if left untreated.
- Leptospirosis: This vaccine is fairly new and protects against the bacteria Leptospira, which can cause kidney disease, liver failure and other symptoms in puppies if left untreated.
- Lyme Disease: This vaccine helps protect against Lyme disease, which is caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi and affects dogs through tick bites with typical symptoms including lameness, fever and joint swelling.
- Bordetella: Also known as kennel cough, this vaccine helps protect against Bordetella bronchiseptica which is an upper respiratory infection commonly seen in heavily populated environments such as kennels and dog parks where it spreads quickly among unvaccinated animals.
Where to Get Puppy Shots in Singapore
If you’re in Singapore, you can find your nearest puppy vaccinations clinic by searching online or consulting your vet. On average, you can expect to pay between $25 and $50 for a puppy’s initial series of vaccines, which should be completed before the 16-week mark.
Typically, vaccinations consist of the following:
- Distemper – this is a viral disease which is passed on by contact with infected animals. It affects the respiratory and nervous systems and can be fatal if left untreated.
- Parvovirus – this virus attacks the digestive system and is also highly contagious. It has been known to cause severe dehydration and death in puppies if not treated quickly.
- Adenovirus – otherwise known as infectious canine hepatitis, this virus affects the liver, respiratory system and eyes.
- Leptospirosis – spread through contact with rat or mouse urine, this bacterial infection can cause kidney failure and death in puppies.
What Else Can Pet Parents Do to Protect Their Puppies
Even if your pup is not up-to-date on shots, there are things you can do to help protect them and keep them healthy.
Diapers & Belly Bands
Dog diapers and belly bands can be used to help potty train your pet. This is especially useful for puppies that are still learning, as it can provide a physical barrier between your pet and the mess any accidents may cause.
Pee Pads
Pee pads are another great tool for puppy training and keeping your home clean. These absorbent pads collect urine and prevent any mess from being tracked around the house. Not only do they make it easier to keep floors clean, but they also aid in potty training puppies as they associate the pads with the idea of going to the bathroom.
Pet Blankets
Make sure to have plenty of pet blankets lying around so that when you cuddle with your pup, you keep the bed and furniture dry! Pet blankets also provide extra warmth in colder temperatures and help keep your puppy snug during naps.
Puppy Proof Your Home
Finally, just like human babies, puppies need their home to be “puppy-proofed” for their safety. Make sure all low surfaces like the coffee table or kitchen counter are out of reach from curious pups!
Longterm Effects of Missing on or Delaying Puppy Vaccinations
Having your puppy vaccinated on time is crucial for their health and safety. Missing or delaying vaccinations can decrease the effectiveness of your puppy’s immune system, making them more vulnerable to illnesses and diseases. According to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association, all vaccines must be administered within 28 days to be considered immunized. Unfortunately, if you miss this window, the vaccine might not take effect, leaving your pup unprotected and open to infection.
The good news is that if vaccines are administered correctly, they can provide long-term immunity – some even last up to several years. However, it’s important to remember that puppies need multiple rounds of shots until they reach a certain age in order to maximize the protection they receive from these vaccines. By following through with all stages of vaccination, you can ensure that your pup is well-protected during their development years.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to getting puppy shots, understanding the consequences of delayed or missed shots is key. Not only can it have negative repercussions for your puppy’s health, but it can also disrupt certain plans or activities you may have for your pup. Vaccinations are an important part of puppy development and health, so always follow through with their vaccine schedule and take the necessary precautions. Don’t let late puppy shots put your pet at risk.
