First vet trip?

[Bergen Herbst]

Hi Everyone!  I'm getting my little doodle the first week in July from a breeder (she'll be 8 weeks).  The breeder is taking her to a vet at 6weeks.  When do I need to make my first vet appointment?

[Julie and Maggie]

You should take your new puppy in within a couple days of bringing her home. So basically, right away.

[Traci -Bexter & Maggie]

You should get a health contract/guarantee from your breeder.  Most of them say to take the pup to a vet within the first 48-72 hours to make sure he/she appears healthy.  My breeder took my puppy to the vet for his first shots/deworming at 6 weeks.  Then, I ended up getting him at 7 weeks, so I took him within 72 hours.  Since he had his first shots just a week before, the vet said the next time we go he'll get his second round.

[Nicky, Riley & Boris]

I got  Riley at Nine weeks and he was due his second shots today.  The breeder told me there was no need to take him twice as he had been at her vet for a health check and neutering.   I had a good health guarantee so felt safe enough to wait until today.  His check up went very well, the vet loved him and gave him his second shots and Kennel cough vaccine.  I think it depends on your breeder some do ask that you go within 72 hours though and others like mine said there was no need until the shots were due.

[Mona A.]

Can someone give me a rough breakdown of all the shots we need to give the puppy and when? What are we supposed to keep them away from until they have had certain shots?

[Traci -Bexter & Maggie]

As far as I know, there are certain core shots that they absolutely need & then there are some optional shots your vet may discuss with you.  As for when...your puppy should already have one set before coming home to you (about 6 wks) and assuming (check with your vet as to what shots they got from breeder) they don't need any more for their first round, then they get 2nd round at about 9 weeks or so I think and then 3rd round at 12 weeks or so, and 4th round around 16 weeks.  Correct me if I'm wrong guys.  This schedule is close though.  I would keep them away from other dogs (unless you KNOW the dogs well & KNOW they are current on all vaccinations).  I would keep them away from places where dogs frequent (Petsmart, dog parks, etc.) because they can carry things on their feet & feces.  It is a fine line between not totally sheltering them (because you want to socialize properly) and keeping them safe.

[Mona A.]

Thanks for the information--its very helpful. My roommate has a pomeranian, but i know he is very up to date on all his vaccinations, so that should be good. What about bringing the puppy around my niece and nephew? (20 months and 4 years old).

[Traci -Bexter & Maggie]

I personally think it'd be great to have the pup around your niece and nephew.  The more people they are exposed to the better in my opinion.