Proper care and training can make a big difference in raising a healthy, obedient puppy. The doctor will discuss:

General healthcare information
Housebreaking
Obedience/behavioral training
Heartworm Disease and prevention
Vaccination and de-worming schedules

  Vaccinations:

Vaccinations are typically started at 6-8 weeks of age.  Boosters are necessary at 3-week intervals until your puppy is at least 12-14 weeks of age, although some breeds should receive an additional booster.  Proper vaccinations are critical to prevent life-threatening infectious disease. Common vaccinations include:

DHLPPVC: Often referred to as “Distemper vaccine” for simplicity. Includes Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, and Coronavirus. Annual boosters required starting the year after puppy series is completed.

Rabies: Rabies vaccination is required by Indiana law. 1-year and 3-year Rabies vaccinations are available.

Kennel Cough (Bordetella): Kennel Cough is a highly contagious disease. Although not life-threatening, infection results in a hacking cough lasting 1-3 weeks.  Spread is easiest in group settings such as boarding kennels, obedience classes, and dog shows. Vaccination is recommended every 6-12 months for dogs at risk.

Lyme Disease: Spread to canines by certain species of ticks. While Lyme Disease is not indigenous to Indiana, some owners who live near wooded areas or lakes elect to vaccinate their dogs. Annual boosters are necessary.

  Heartworm Disease and Prevention:

Heartworm Disease is a serious parasite spread to both dogs and cats by the mosquito. While infection can be fatal, heartworm is easily prevented by giving monthly preventative medication. Preventative should be given from May to December and can be started in puppies as young as 6-8 weeks of age. Several choices are available:

Interceptor: Flavored tablet given once monthly.  Prevents heartworm and controls intestinal worms (roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm).


Sentinel: Flavored tablet given once monthly.  Prevents heartworm and controls intestinal worms (roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm). Contains a second ingredient to aid with flea control. While Sentinel does not kill adult fleas, it prevents flea eggs from developing, thereby breaking the flea life cycle.


Revolution:  Topical liquid applied to the back of the neck once monthly.  Prevents heartworm, kills adult fleas and their eggs, and kills ticks. Also kills ear mites and Sarcoptic mange.