All dogs should be vaccinated against Parvovirus, Hepatitis and Distemper. Puppies need a program to minimise the risk of them contracting these potentially fatal viruses as well as the less deadly Canine Cough. At D.R.V.C. we also vaccinate puppies against Coronavirus (a serious diarrhoea virus) and Leptospirosis (C2 vaccine). The recommended vaccination program is :
An annual booster is required every year thereafter. A C5 is the advised adult vaccination as it offers protection against Canine Cough (Parainfluenza and Bordatella.) which is highly infectious.
Dogs need to be wormed regularly to remove intestinal worms. These include whipworm, round worm, hookworm and tapeworm. Worming should be done from:
Supermarket wormers are not 100% effective
Heartworm is transmitted by mosquitoes and is present in many areas of Australia. Your puppy should begin heartworm prevention by 6 months of age. If your puppy is overdue for a dose by 6 weeks then a blood test is advised before resuming prevention. Most heartworm products are administered monthly, however there is now a convenient yearly injection for adults.
It is important to de-flea your pup. Fleas carry tapeworm, and can even cause anaemia. Most flea treatments are administered monthly by topical application. There are a variety of extremely safe products that can incorporate heartworm, flea, mange and ticks.