Puppy Plans
HOW TO ACHIEVE SUCCESSFUL VACCINATION OF YOUR PUPPY
Puppies are born with some immunity from their mothers to common viruses (Distemper, Parvo, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Rabies) that can be deadly. Unfortunately, this borrowed immunity which helps the puppy fight off the viruses, only lasts a few months of their lives. To protect the pups, it is important to administer vaccines so they create their own immunity, preferably before the immunity they acquire from their mothers, through nursing, wears off. Some vaccines require repeated dosing. For puppies, the vaccines are often repeated every three weeks, starting as early as six weeks old and concluding at 16 (or older) weeks of age. The rabies vaccine is the exception and is given only once, often at 16 weeks of age. All vaccines are periodically boosted throughout their lifetime to keep their immunity strong.
WHAT ABOUT PARASITES?
There are numerous parasites that can create serious problems for pups and, if left untreated, can create health concerns for humans as well. External and internal parasites are common in most young animals. External parasites can be devastating as these youngsters try to make an increasing amount of blood for their growing bodies only to have it robbed by fleas or ticks. Similarly, internal parasites, such as hookworms, can rob pups of blood from the inside of their bodies. The internal parasites are assessed and addressed through testing and are treated with the most appropriate strategy for the particular parasite(s) of concern.
RAISING A HEALTHY, HAPPY PUPPY
Breed-related health and/or behavioral matters are also addressed during these visits to optimize your pup's health. Socialization strategies are emphasized as critical aspects to raising your well-adjusted, happy dog. Ongoing discussions covering these areas are included in the Puppy Plan and as the needs arise throughout your pup's life.
A SUMMARY OF YOUR NEW PUPPY'S NEEDS
Puppy Plans are designed to get your new puppy properly examined, immunized, de-wormed and started on a program to prevent heartworms and control parasites. The cost of the plan for your pup varies directly with the total number of exams and vaccines that are required to provide adequate protection. A four, three, two, or one visit plan will be recommended based on the age and lifestyle that you choose for your pup. All plans include deworming, initial heartworm prevention, thorough exams, and ongoing consultations to guide you through the process of raising a puppy to adulthood.