Even a healthy puppy needs vaccinations
Sometimes a new owner of a puppy will ask why their pet has to have a set of vaccinations when the dog is obviously fit and healthy.
The answer to this question is that although he may look fit and healthy at the moment, bacteria and other diseases can attack his vulnerable immune system causing illness, which in some cases could lead to death. A puppy that has had his vaccines has an immune system that is better prepared for any infections, in some cases preventing and blocking them altogether.
Also, a puppy’s health can break down. However a puppy that has had his vaccinations will have had a good start after being fed on its mother’s milk.
The schedule of puppy vaccinations should start within a couple of days of bringing your puppy home. He should not be allowed out until after he has had all his injections.
A set of vaccinations will help in the prevention of diseases such as distemper; a viral disease that is found in other dog’s faeces, vomit and saliva. Dogs between the ages of 3 and 9 months are more susceptible to this disease.
Hepatitis is a debilitating disease for humans; a puppy that catches this disease will have problems with his liver, his cardiovascular system and lymph modes.
Parvovirus is passed to dogs from contaminated faeces and can also be transmitted through one to one, dog-to-dog contact. The dangerous symptoms are depression, vomiting and diarrhoea with spots of blood.
Kennel Cough is a highly infectious disease transmitted in the same way; the symptoms are frequent coughing, a lot of retching and a nasal discharge.
Top tip: Taking out a pet insurance policy for puppies and adult dogs gives pet owners peace of mind for any future illness that may occur.
