In addition to surgeries and dental care (click here to know more), vaccinations and deworming are two crucial health care procedures for puppies. But can they be done on the same day?
The answer is yes. A puppy can be vaccinated and dewormed on the same day. But this may not be the best option. Here’s your quick guide on when to vaccinate and deworm your puppy.
Deworming Your Pet
Deworming is the process of eliminating parasitic worms from your pet’s body. These parasites can cause various health problems, including diarrhea, weight loss, and anemia.
Most puppies are born with worms. They can pick up these parasites from their mother’s milk or while in the womb. Puppies can also get worms from the environment, such as contaminated soil or water. That’s why it’s important to have your puppy dewormed as soon as possible.
When Is the Right Time to Deworm Dogs?
Puppies should be dewormed for at least two to four weeks for the first time. After that, they should be dewormed every two to four weeks until they’re at least 12 weeks old. Then, you should deworm them every month until they’re six months old. This can be followed every three to six months for the rest of their lives.
Vaccinating Your Pet
Dog and cat shots help protect your pet from a variety of dangerous diseases. Some of these diseases can be fatal. In dogs, it is essential to start vaccinating your puppy as early as possible to protect them from these diseases.
Some deadly diseases they can experience if they are not vaccinated include:
- Parvovirus
- Distemper
- Hepatitis
When Is the Right Time to Vaccinate Dogs?
Your puppies should receive their first round of vaccinations between six and eight weeks. They will need booster shots every three to four weeks until they are 16 weeks old. After that, vets give them booster shots every year.
Why Deworming and Vaccinating a Puppy on the Same Day Is Not Advisable
While it is possible to deworm and vaccinate a puppy on the same day, it is not advisable. This is because the two procedures use different types of drugs. Deworming drugs are typically given orally, while vaccinations are introduced by injection.
Here are the disadvantages of deworming and vaccinating pets on the same day:
1. Increased Risk of Side Effects
Giving your puppy two different types of drugs at the same time can increase the risk of side effects. These range from mild to severe, including vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.
2. Weakened Immune System
Deworming drugs work by killing parasites in the intestines. This can also kill helpful bacteria necessary for a puppy’s immune system. This may result in a weakened immune system, making them more susceptible to diseases.
3. Interference with Vaccinations
Some deworming drugs can interfere with how well a vaccine works. This means that your puppy may not be fully protected against disease even if they have been vaccinated.
Talk to a Vet About the Right Schedules
The best way to ensure that your puppy is healthy is to talk to a vet about the suitable schedules for deworming and vaccinating. They are the right people to help you create a schedule that will work best for your puppy based on their individual needs.
But keep in mind that vets are not created equal. Make sure to consult only with a licensed and experienced professional. You know they are reputable if they provide various services and are equipped with state-of-the-art vet equipment.
Also, make sure their clinic specializes in various vet areas, such as this veterinary internal medicine in Lethbridge. Because this specialization guarantees that the vet you are talking to has sufficient know-how in handling multiple animal health cases, not just general ones.
The Bottom Line
It is not advisable to deworm and vaccinate a puppy at the same time. Doing this can increase the risk of side effects. It is best to talk to a vet about the right schedules for deworming and vaccinating your puppy.
