Hey Dog Lovers, today I’m going to tell you how to properly vaccinate your dog in India. There are many vaccines available in the market, which can be confusing. However, with the latest updates, I’ll explain how to administer them, which ones to use, how much they cost, and the benefits and drawbacks of vaccination.
Types of Vaccines
First, let me explain that there are two main types of vaccines:
- Combined Vaccine
- Rabies Vaccine
When to Vaccinate
It’s crucial to know when to give each type of vaccine to avoid any dangerous problems for your dog.
- Puppy Age 30 to 35 Days:
- Administer the first shot of the combined vaccine.
- The combined vaccine covers several diseases such as parvovirus, distemper, leptospirosis, and others. Depending on the number of diseases it covers, it can be 7 in 1, 8 in 1, or 9 in 1.
- This vaccine usually costs around Rs 150.
- Puppy Age 3 Months:
- Administer the rabies vaccine.
Combined Vaccine Details
Diseases covered by combined vaccines include:
- Parvovirus
- Distemper
- Leptospirosis
- And others, totaling up to 7, 8, or 9 diseases.
Rabies Vaccine
The rabies vaccine is administered to prevent your dog from contracting rabies or spreading it if bitten. Different diseases require different vaccines, and it’s essential to administer them at the correct times.
Common Mistakes
Many people make the mistake of administering vaccines at the wrong times. For example:
- Puppy Age 30 to 45 Days:
- Administer the DP vaccine (Distemper and Parvovirus).
- After 21 to 28 days, administer the combined vaccine (7 in 1, 8 in 1, or 9 in 1).
- Repeat the combined vaccine after some time.
Correct Vaccination Procedure
- Always start with the puppy DP vaccine to produce antibodies.
- If your dog is over 1 year old, start directly with the combined vaccine (7 in 1, 8 in 1, or 9 in 1).
- After completing the combined vaccine, administer the rabies vaccine after one week.
Important Points
- Puppy Age Over 1 Year:
- Do not administer the puppy DP vaccine. Start with the combined vaccine and follow with the rabies vaccine after a few days.
- Rabies Vaccine Age Requirement:
- Administer the rabies vaccine when the puppy is 3 months old. Before this age, the puppy’s body might struggle to produce antibodies.
Updated Recommendations
I used to recommend the Novi Vac vaccine from MSD, which was 9 in 1 but has changed and no longer includes rabies. Instead, it now includes L4.
- After completing the combined vaccine, wait one week before administering the rabies vaccine.
Administration Tips
- When administering the vaccine, ensure the dog’s skin is lifted correctly to avoid wasting the vaccine.