Post-First Dose: Essential Tips for Your Pup's Health

Vaccines are essentially weakened forms of viruses, with the exception of rabies vaccines, which are inactivated vaccines. These viruses have been specially treated to reduce their virulence, making them insufficient to cause disease in animals. However, they are still capable of stimulating the immune response in the body, leading to the production of antibodies that can prevent the virus from entering. This process builds up the body's resistance to the virus.

It's important to note that different types of vaccines require different vaccination schedules.

For puppies, the first vaccination is typically a multivalent vaccine, which is usually administered around 45 days after birth. However, if a puppy is particularly small, belonging to a toy breed, and may not be able to withstand the vaccine's reaction, it's advisable to wait until the puppy is approximately 8 weeks old before giving the first shot.

Here are some important considerations when administering vaccines:

1. It's crucial to have the vaccination done by a professional veterinarian at a reputable pet hospital.

2. Before vaccination, a thorough physical examination of the dog is necessary, including checking the temperature. If the dog is weak or malnourished, it's best to improve its diet and ensure the dog is in good health before administering the vaccine. Additionally, if the dog has parasites, it should be dewormed before receiving the vaccine.

3. Vaccination in dogs is akin to artificial infection with the pathogen. Some dogs may experience local swelling or mild allergic reactions, which are generally not severe and should resolve within a few days without treatment. In cases where the vaccine quality is substandard or the dog's immune system reacts excessively, severe allergic reactions may occur. In such instances, follow the doctor's advice to use medications like adrenaline, and ensure the dog receives ample vitamin C and plenty of water.

4. After vaccination, the dog's immune system may initially weaken before strengthening. It takes approximately 2 to 3 weeks for the vaccine to provide complete immunity. During this period, it's essential to avoid certain activities that could weaken the immune system, such as changes in environment, diet, bathing, vigorous exercise, contact with sick dogs, longdistance travel, or surgical procedures. Pay close attention to weather changes as well.

5. For the first week after vaccination, avoid giving the dog a bath or allowing it to swim.

6. It's normal for dogs to experience symptoms like fever, depression, decreased appetite, and pain after vaccination. These symptoms usually subside within 3 hours.

7. Throughout the vaccination process, it's important to show extra care and attention to your dog. Choose highquality vaccines, provide adequate nutrition, and consider immuneboosting supplements to help your dog navigate the vaccination period smoothly and develop a robust immune system.