No Comments
Puppy Vaccination Schedule – A Complete Guide for New Dog Owners in Orleans
Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time for any Orleans family. But with that excitement comes responsibility – especially when it comes to vaccinations. At Trim Pet Hospital, we help new puppy owners navigate the essential vaccine schedule that protects their furry family members from serious, preventable diseases.
Puppies are born with temporary immunity from their mother’s milk, but this protection begins to fade between 6 and 8 weeks of age. That’s when the first round of vaccines becomes critical.
Core vaccines every puppy needs:
The DAPP vaccine (Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza) requires three doses. The first dose is given at 8 weeks, the second at 12 weeks, and the third at 16 weeks. After the initial series, your dog will need a booster every one to three years depending on the vaccine type.
The rabies vaccine is legally required in Ontario. It is given at 16 weeks of age, with boosters every one to three years.
Optional but highly recommended vaccines for Orleans dogs:
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through wildlife urine in standing water – common in Ottawa’s green spaces. The vaccine requires an initial dose at 12 weeks, a booster 3-4 weeks later, then yearly protection.
Lyme disease is transmitted by black-legged ticks, which are prevalent in the Ottawa Valley. The Lyme vaccine series starts at 12 weeks, requires a booster, then yearly maintenance.
Bordetella (kennel cough) is an oral vaccine often required for daycare, boarding, or training classes. It is given at 12 weeks and then yearly.
After each vaccination, monitor your puppy for mild side effects like temporary fatigue or slight swelling at the injection site – these usually resolve within 24 hours. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare but require immediate veterinary attention.
Ready to start your puppy’s vaccine series? Call Trim Pet Hospital at 613-834-4442 to schedule their first wellness visit.
