Puppy Care

Your Puppy’s Vaccine & Wellness Schedule

Building a healthy start for a lifetime of protection. We’re so glad you’ve chosen to protect your puppy’s health! Puppies need a series of booster visits to build strong immunity against common and serious diseases. Below is a simple guide to what we do and why it matters.

First Puppy Visit: 6–9 Weeks Old

What we do:

  • DAPP Vaccine: Protects against Distemper, Adenovirus (Hepatitis), Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza — all dangerous and sometimes fatal viruses.
  • Bordetella Vaccine: Helps prevent kennel cough, a contagious respiratory infection.
  • Fecal Test: Checks for intestinal parasites (worms, giardia, coccidia) that can make your puppy sick or infect people.

Second Visit: ~12 Weeks Old (3 Weeks Later)

  • DAPP Booster: Strengthens protection from the first vaccine.
  • Leptospirosis Vaccine: Protects against bacteria spread by wildlife and standing water that can cause serious kidney and liver damage (and can infect humans).
  • Lyme Vaccine: Protects against Lyme disease carried by ticks.
  • Fecal Test: Ensures parasites are cleared and your puppy stays healthy.

Third Visit: ~15–16 Weeks Old (3 Weeks Later)

  • DAPP Final Booster: Confirms full, long-term immunity.
  • Rabies Vaccine: Legally required; protects against this fatal disease that can affect pets and people.
  • Leptospirosis Booster: Finalizes immunity.
  • Lyme Booster: Finalizes immunity.
  • Schedule Spay/Neuter: Usually performed around 5–6 months old. This prevents unwanted litters and reduces future health and behavior problems.

Six-Month Visit

  • Heartworm Test: Ensures your dog is heartworm-free before starting or continuing monthly prevention. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause serious heart and lung disease.

Extra Puppy Care Tips

  • Keep your puppy away from public areas or unvaccinated dogs until vaccines are complete.
  • Start monthly flea, tick, and heartworm prevention early.
  • Begin gentle training and socialization now — it’s the best time!
  • Schedule regular checkups every 6–12 months after vaccines are complete.

We’re Here Every Step of the Way

Our goal is to make sure your puppy grows into a healthy, confident, and protected dog. If you ever have questions, please ask — no question is too small when it comes to your new best friend.

After-Hours Emergency Care

If you have an emergency after our regular business hours, call our main line at  319-277-7675 and select the option for emergency calls. You’ll be connected to our answering service—please leave a detailed message, and they will contact the doctor on call right away and return your call.

For non-urgent or simple questions, you’re also welcome to message us on Facebook, and we’ll do our best to respond as soon as possible.

Schedule your puppy’s next wellness visit today! Our veterinary team is here to guide you through vaccines, preventive care, and tips to help your puppy grow into a healthy, happy, and protected dog. Call or text us at 319-277-7675 or email [email protected] if you have any questions.