Vaccination of dogs and puppies
Vaccination is often the first reason that brings a new puppy or kitten owner to the veterinarian. The basic rule is to vaccinate only healthy animals; in case of illness, it is advisable to postpone the vaccination. Furthermore, it is necessary not to overexert the animal after vaccination, not to let it get cold anywhere, and to consult a veterinarian about the application of all medications, including deworming tablets. In general, it is advisable to deworm dogs and cats no later than a week before and no earlier than a week after vaccination.
The vaccination itself is usually well tolerated by animals. Side effects such as fatigue, loss of appetite and a temporary increase in temperature occur rarely and subside quickly. In exceptional cases, hives, itching and swelling at the injection site or swelling of the head may occur. Inform your veterinarian about such side effects, who will change the brand of vaccine at the next vaccination. Severe reactions in the form of anaphylactic shock occur very rarely and immediately after vaccination. For this reason, there is no need to be overly concerned, as a specialist who will take care of the animal is always within reach.
Basic vaccinations - puppy
Usually, the puppy is given to its new owner after the first vaccination, during which it is vaccinated against distemper (D) and parvovirus (P). This is followed by a booster vaccination in 3-4 weeks, when it is vaccinated against three more diseases - infectious hepatitis (H), parainfluenza (Pi) and leptospirosis (L). Subsequently, the complete vaccine (i.e. DHPPiL) is revaccinated again after 3-4 weeks. Ideally, the last booster vaccination should take place at 16 weeks of age or later, when there is no longer a risk of the vaccine being "weakened" by antibodies from mother's milk. The number of vaccinations at the beginning of a puppy's life therefore depends on when the breeder starts vaccination. However, in practice, the vaccination schedule is ended earlier, usually after the third vaccination. From the 3rd month onwards, the risk of an insufficient response to the vaccine is minimal. Rabies (R) is usually vaccinated together with the last vaccination against all infections. By law, the owner is required to have their dog vaccinated against rabies from the age of 6 months. It is therefore possible to vaccinate against rabies later and thus reduce the burden on the puppy's immune system.
Recommended vaccination schedule - puppy
Optional puppy vaccinations
Puppies can also be vaccinated against other diseases. Vaccination against tetanus is recommended especially for dogs that are around horses during the teething period. There is a proven breed predisposition in German shepherds. The first dose can be administered from the 12th week of age, followed by a revaccination after 3-4 weeks. Lyme disease is a disease transmitted mainly by ticks. Vaccination is therefore recommended in areas with an increased incidence of ticks. The principles of vaccine administration are similar to those for tetanus. Fungal diseases caused by the causative agent Microsporum canis can also be vaccinated, but the vaccine is most often used therapeutically after the outbreak of an infection. It is also possible to vaccinate with an intranasal vaccine against kennel cough, but the course of the disease is usually not severe enough to require vaccination.
