Should Puppies Get Vaccinated or Dewormed First?
Parasite control in dogs is divided into two main categories: internal and external.
External parasite control is relatively straightforward, involving the removal of parasites from the dog's body. Common external parasites include ticks, fleas, and lice. These types of deworming medications are typically applied topically, often in the form of sprays or spoton treatments.
Internal deworming, on the other hand, targets parasites within the dog's body, such as mites and toxoplasma. These medications are administered orally.
Common reactions after deworming:
1. After applying external deworming products, your dog might initially feel uncomfortable due to the scent of the medication or skin irritation. It's crucial to prevent your dog from licking the treated area or their fur to avoid ingestion of the product.
2. Following the use of internal deworming medications, your dog may experience temporary symptoms like a lack of energy, decreased appetite, or vomiting.
Should puppies be dewormed before vaccination?
For puppies that haven't been dewormed or vaccinated, it's generally recommended to deworm first. However, this is just a suggestion. Dog owners should consult with their veterinarian or a professional to determine the best order for deworming and vaccination based on their pet's specific situation. Deworming, which can often be done at home with overthecounter medications, is generally considered easier than vaccination, which is best administered by a professional. It's often easier to tackle the simpler task first.
Of course, whether it's deworming or vaccination, these procedures should only be carried out when the dog is in good health. It's also important to ensure that deworming or vaccination is done in an environment that is less prone to infections or colds. Pay attention to factors such as the climate, environmental cleanliness, the authenticity of the medication, and the correctness of the deworming method.
Why do we recommend deworming before vaccination?
We suggest deworming first because the effectiveness of vaccines can be compromised by the presence of internal parasites. If a dog has parasites in their body, the likelihood of vaccine failure is significantly higher. Deworming is the process of using medication to eliminate both internal and external parasites—common internal parasites include roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and heartworms, while external parasites include fleas, ticks, and mange mites.
Even newborn puppies can be infected with these harmful parasites from their mothers. If not promptly treated, these parasites can lead to malnutrition, a weakened immune system, and create opportunities for other viruses to thrive. Some parasites can even spread serious diseases in animals.
