Bringing a new puppy into your family is an exciting and joyful experience. Along with the cuddles and playtime, responsible pet ownership includes ensuring your puppy receives timely vaccinations to protect them from dangerous and contagious diseases. Understanding the puppy vaccination schedule is crucial to giving your new furry friend the best start in life.
At North Care Animal Hospital, located in North Vancouver and conveniently close to West Vancouver, we specialize in comprehensive puppy vaccination programs designed to keep your pet healthy and thriving. Whether you live in North Vancouver or West Vancouver, our hospital offers walk-in services and in-home veterinary care to suit your lifestyle.
In this guide, we cover the essential puppy vaccination schedule, explain why each vaccine matters, and provide practical advice on how to keep your puppy safe. If you have any questions or want to schedule a vaccination appointment, please call us at 604-984-1464 or visit us without an appointment via our walk-in veterinary services.
Why Puppy Vaccinations Are Critical
Puppies are vulnerable to many infectious diseases that can be life-threatening. Vaccinations stimulate their immune system to build protection against these illnesses before they are exposed. Early vaccination reduces the risk of diseases such as:
Canine parvovirus
Distemper virus
Canine adenovirus
Rabies
Bordetella (kennel cough)
Without a proper puppy vaccination schedule, puppies are at risk of severe illness or death. Timely vaccinations also protect other dogs in the community by reducing the spread of contagious diseases.
The Standard Puppy Vaccination Schedule
Puppy vaccinations are administered in a series to maximize immune response. Below is a typical schedule recommended by veterinarians, including our experts at North Care Animal Hospital:
| Age (Weeks) | Vaccine(s) | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6-8 weeks | DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza) | Core protection against common viruses | First dose in the puppy series |
| 10-12 weeks | DHPP (2nd dose), Bordetella (optional) | Booster and protection against kennel cough | Bordetella recommended for social pups |
| 14-16 weeks | DHPP (3rd dose), Rabies | Final core vaccines before adulthood | Rabies vaccination is required by law |
| 12-16 weeks | Leptospirosis (optional) | Protection against bacterial infection from wildlife | Recommended in some areas |
| 6 months+ | DHPP booster | Immunity reinforcement | Given annually or every 3 years after initial series |
Note: This schedule may vary based on your puppy’s health, breed, and lifestyle.
How We Tailor Vaccination for Your Puppy in North Vancouver and West Vancouver
At North Care Animal Hospital, we evaluate each puppy individually, considering their age, breed, medical history, and environment. If you live in West Vancouver, we encourage you to visit our hospital due to our comprehensive services and experienced veterinary team.
We also offer:
Walk-in veterinary services: No appointment needed for vaccinations and wellness checks. Visit us at your convenience. Details here: Walk-in services
In-home or mobile vet services: For busy pet owners or puppies with special needs, our in-home care team comes to you. Learn more at In-home veterinary services.
What to Expect During Your Puppy’s Vaccination Visit
During the vaccination appointment, our veterinarian will:
Perform a thorough physical exam to ensure your puppy is healthy enough for vaccination.
Discuss the vaccination schedule tailored to your puppy’s needs.
Administer vaccines using safe and modern techniques.
Provide advice on aftercare, including potential mild side effects such as soreness or slight lethargy.
Answer any questions regarding vaccine-preventable diseases, pet safety, and overall puppy health.
Common Puppy Vaccines Explained
DHPP Vaccine
A combination vaccine that protects against:
Distemper: A severe viral disease causing respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological symptoms.
Hepatitis (Adenovirus): Affects the liver and other organs.
Parvovirus: Highly contagious and often fatal gastrointestinal disease.
Parainfluenza: Respiratory virus contributing to kennel cough.
Rabies Vaccine
A legally required vaccine that protects against the fatal rabies virus, transmissible to humans.
Bordetella Vaccine
Prevents kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection common in places where dogs gather.
Leptospirosis Vaccine
Protects against a bacterial infection contracted from contaminated water or wildlife urine.
Why Choose North Care Animal Hospital for Puppy Vaccinations?
Expert Veterinary Team: Skilled veterinarians experienced in pediatric veterinary care.
Convenient Location: Based in North Vancouver, just minutes from West Vancouver.
Flexible Services: Walk-in availability and in-home vet visits to suit your schedule.
Comprehensive Care: Beyond vaccinations, we offer wellness exams, parasite control, nutrition advice, and emergency services. Learn more about our emergency care here: Pet Emergency Services
Client Education: We empower pet owners with the latest information on pet health and wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Puppy Vaccinations
Q: When should I start vaccinating my puppy?
A: Vaccinations typically begin at 6-8 weeks of age and continue every 3-4 weeks until about 16 weeks.
Q: Are vaccinations safe for my puppy?
A: Yes, vaccines are extensively tested and considered safe. Mild side effects are rare but can include temporary soreness or lethargy.
Q: Can I bring my puppy to the vet for vaccinations without an appointment?
A: Yes! Our walk-in veterinary services make it easy and convenient.
Q: Do you offer in-home vaccinations?
A: Absolutely! For your convenience, we provide in-home veterinary services in North and West Vancouver.
Schedule Your Puppy Vaccination Today
Don’t wait to protect your puppy from preventable diseases. Vaccinating your puppy on schedule is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure a long, healthy life together.
Visit North Care Animal Hospital for expert care and compassionate service. Call us today at 604-984-1464 or come by our clinic at:
1061 Marine Drive, Unit #101
North Vancouver, BC V7P 1S6
We’re open 7 days a week from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM to accommodate your busy schedule. Whether you’re in North Vancouver or West Vancouver, our team is ready to provide the best puppy vaccinations and health care.
If you need urgent care, remember we also provide emergency veterinary services.
Conclusion
An essential part of responsible pet ownership is adhering to a puppy vaccination schedule. At North Care Animal Hospital, we understand the importance of protecting your puppy from dangerous diseases through timely, professional vaccinations. With our flexible walk-in and in-home options, expert team, and commitment to client education, you can trust us to keep your puppy healthy from day one.
Call us now at 604-984-1464 or visit our website to book your puppy’s vaccination appointment today!