Ask Dr Claire
Is it safe to take a puppy out to places where other dogs may be before he has his last puppy vaccine?
Until a puppy is fully vaccinated (according to the manufacturers directions for the specific brand of vaccination given by the Veterinarian) they can contract preventable conditions such as Parvovirus, from not only sick dogs directly, but also from the environment where the sick dog has been (it can live in the environment for up to 12 months).
This means if a puppy was exposed to the virus prior to completing their vaccine course, they are at risk of contacting Parvovirus when they are exposed to it.
Puppies should only be socialised in safe environments with healthy, vaccinated dogs (a healthy confined space, or reputable puppy schools etc), not at dog parks or in public areas which are regularly frequented by other dogs.
Socialisation is really important at this age but needs to be done safely. It’s also worth checking at your local veterinarian if there are many cases of Parvovirus in the area.
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Chat soon,
Dr Claire