All dogs should be vaccinated against Distemper, Hepatitis, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus. This vaccine goes by the initials "DA2PP" in our office. These puppy shots should be started at 6 to 8 weeks of age, and should be repeated every 4 weeks until the puppy is over 16 weeks of age. A puppy should not be exposed to unknown dogs or where other dogs have been (parks, rest areas, etc.) until 48 hours after the last shot is given. This is followed by a booster in one year, then one every third year.

Lyme Disease is a tick-transmitted disease, infecting multisystems, primarily joints. The Lyme lick has been found in our area. We recommend that all dogs that have the potential to be exposed to ticks be vaccinated against Lyme disease.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection of the internal organs, that if untreated can be fatal. Leptospirosis can cause permanent damage to the kidneys. The disease is spread through contaminated water or urine from infected animals. Leptospirosis can infect humans! This disease is endemic in upstate New York.

Kennel Cough is a common, highly contagious condition afflicting dogs confined with other dogs in facilities such as boarding kennels, dog shows and shelters. The condition is usually non-fatal, but occasionally turns into pneumonia. Kennel cough vaccination is recommended if your dog will be placed in any of these high risk situations. Our boarding kennel (requires all boarders to be vaccinated against kennel cough.

Rabies is a disease, which all dogs must be vaccinated against as required by New York State law. Several cases of rabies are reported in New York each year and Otsego County is an endemic rabies county. This disease is transmitted to man. The recommended schedule for your puppy is: 1st Rabies (12 to 16 weeks), then a One year booster, followed by a booster every 3 years.