Puppy Care

VACCINATION
As of April 2007, we are changing to an early vaccination program, which allows puppies to finish their course of vaccinations and therefore, get out socializing about 1 month earlier than conventional vaccination programs.
What should your dog be vaccinated against?
We routinely vaccinate against Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis and Canine Cough (both Bordetella and Parainfluenza).
When should the vaccinations be given?
1st C3  (Distemper/Hepatitis/Parvovirus) ………………. 6 weeks of age
2nd C5 (As above + Canine Cough) ……………………. 9 weeks of age
3rd C5  (As above + 2nd Canine Cough) ……………….. 12 weeks of age
CONTINUING THEN WITH A YEARLY BOOSTER.
Please remember your puppy is not fully covered by vaccinations until 2 weeks after the final vaccination. It is important to restrict contact with other dogs and public places during this time.

HEARTWORM PREVENTION
Heartworm is a parasite that is transmitted to dogs by mosquitoes and then moves to the chambers of the dog’s heart, eventually causing death by heart failure. It is a very common parasite in Brisbane and all pups should start prevention at 6-12 weeks of age, and remain on prevention for life. There are a number of preparations available. Our most recommended ones are:
ADVOCATE– A spot-on that covers heartworm and fleas and intestinal worms.  Apply monthly for life.
REVOLUTION – A spot-on that covers heartworm, fleas, ear mites and sarcoptic mange.  Apply monthly for life.
HEARTGARD – A beef chew or tablet for control of heartworm.  Given monthly for life. 
SENTINEL – A tablet combining heartworm prevention, intestinal worming and a flea control that prevents fleas from breeding (does not kill existing fleas). Given monthly for life.
PROHEART injection – Covers heartworm only.  Given once per year for life.
DIMMITROL – A tablet or liquid covering heartworm ONLY given daily for life (this product is not generally recommended)

WORMING
Intestinal worms can cause serious problems, and puppies are especially at risk. When worm burdens become high we can see problems such as diarrhoea, vomiting, pot-belly, weight loss, anaemia, scooting and even more serious intestinal complications.
What should your pup be wormed against?
Roundworm, Hookworm, Tapeworm (including hydatids) and Whipworm.
These can all be spread to people especially children so it is very important to prevent infestation.
When?
Worm every fortnight from 2 to 12 weeks of age, then monthly up to 6 months of age, then every three months for life.  If there are any children in the family it may be advisable to worm the dog monthly for life.  We recommend Drontal Allwormer.
Please note that intestinal wormers do not cover heartworm.

FLEAS
ADVANTAGE – safe from birth, can be used on nursing bitch, apply as a spot of fluid to the back of the neck once every month. Provides a rapid flea kill.
ADVOCATE– covers fleas and heartworm  and intestinal worms.  Apply as spot on once every month for life
FRONTLINE TOP SPOT– spot on used once every month for flea control and once every two weeks for tick control.
FRONTLINE SPRAY – safe from two weeks of age, use every three months for pups.                                                          REVOLUTION - safe from birth. Also covers for heartworm .                                                                                              SENTINAL SPECTRUM - Contains a product that stops fleas from breeding - a good long term control.                            NB.  All animals in the household must be treated for control to be effective!!  (all dogs and all cats!)

INSURANCE
We recommend that all puppy owners seriously consider health insurance for their new pet. Pet insurance costs from $2.95 a week and means that unforeseen accidents and illness can be covered.

TICKS
Paralysis ticks can be life threatening. Fortunately, they are not a huge problem in Bulimba, however we do see a number of cases each summer. Any animals spending time in bushy areas are at higher risk. Please discuss tick control products with one of our health care team members. SIGNS of tick paralysis include wobbly back legs, change in voice, coughing, vomiting, depression and disinterest or total collapse.  Seek veterinary attention immediately if you suspect a tick!!

DESEXING
This can be done at 4-6 months of age and involves a day visit with us.  De-sexing will help control problems such as roaming, aggression, inappropriate mounting, mammary and prostatic disease.  Your council registration will also be much cheaper.
There is no advantage for your female dog to have a season or a litter first before de-sexing!!

FEEDING
Use a puppy preparation commercial food (not adult) as these are balanced in all the vitamins, minerals and dietary requirements your growing pup needs.
We recommend premium quality foods such as Eukanuba, Hills Science Diet.
Up to 3 months old …………… 3 meals/day
From 3-6 months old ………… 2 meals/day
Over 6 months old …………… 1-2 meals/day
For healthy teeth and gums, large raw leg marrow bones and brisket bones are great.  In smaller breeds, raw chicken wings or necks may be more appropriate.
Nb.  NEVER FEED COOKED BONES OR THOSE WITH SHARP POINTS  eg. T & chop bones

MICROCHIP IMPLANTS
One aspect of responsible dog ownership is the identification of your pet.  A MICROCHIP IMPLANT is the new technology available for lifetime identification.  At approx 1cm long, insertion is by simple injection that can be done at vaccination or de-sexing times or any other convenient time by appointment. A collar and tag can be lost, but a microchip is there for life.

PUPPY SOCIALISATION
Our pups must be well adjusted in many different environments from a very young age – expose your pup to people and other animals – a good obedience school can make the difference between a beloved family member and a public nuisance!  Ask about our PUPPY PRESCHOOL!

IF YOU HAVE ANY PROBLEMS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR NEW PUP, PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO PHONE THE CLINIC.