Vaccines for Puppies & Dogs

Just as humans are exposed to contagious diseases that can be dangerous if not protected, it is the same with our pets. Without regular vaccinations, your pet is prey to some harmful diseases. Starting with puppy vaccines, your pet needs to be on a regular schedule of vaccinations to ensure lifelong protection from dangerous diseases.

How do vaccines work?

When our veterinarian administers puppy and dog vaccines, a tiny amount of the disease is injected into the bloodstream. Their body then goes to work to build a defense against the illness. In order to keep the immune defense mechanism working to protect your pet, booster vaccines are necessary every year after their initial puppy vaccines. If you have questions about vaccines, please contact us at 416-245-8805.

What non-core and core vaccines are available?

Veterinary experts classify vaccinations into two types: core and non-core. Just as the names suggest, the core vaccines are non-negotiable while the non-core are optional based on lifestyle. We will work with you to determine which non-core dog vaccines your pet needs to always be protected. Based on our assessment, we'll determine if your pet could benefit from non-core vaccines, depending on their lifestyles. Non-core vaccines we offer include Lyme disease, bordetella (kennel cough), parainfluenza (canine flu) and adenovirus vaccines. Core vaccines you cannot opt out of getting include:

• Parvovirus
• Distemper
• Rabies
• Leptospirosis (canine hepatitis)

What will my pets vaccination plan include?

Dogs need a booster every year for Lyme disease, bordetella & leptospirosis for high-risk pets. Parvovirus, distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza boosters are administered every 3 years. Puppies typically follow the vaccination schedule below:

• 8 weeks: distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza and parvovirus
• 12 weeks: distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, parvovirus, bordetella & leptospirosis for high-risk pets
• 16 weeks: distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, parvovirus and rabies (1 yr vaccine) and leptospirosis for high-risk pets
• 1 year: distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, parvovirus and rabies (3 yr vaccine) and leptospirosis for high-risk pets