How to Give Your Puppy Shots at Home

Giving your dog their vaccinations at home is easy, convenient, affordable, and safe (When the proper steps are taken).

In this article, we'll teach you everything you need to know about vaccinating your dog.

Vets charge on average $50.00 per office visit and an additional $20.00 per vaccine.

By giving your dog their shots at home, you will save an average $1000.00 - $1330.00 throughout your dog's life time.

What you will need

1.) Peroxide

2.) Cotton swabs

3.) The Canine spectra® 5 in one shot.

4.) Cooler with ice (For transporting the shots from the feed store).

TOTAL COST: $12.00

Peroxide and cotton swabs may be purchased at any local food store.

Tractor supply and most local feed stores will carry the Canine spectra 5 in one vaccine. (Call them or check their website to verify if they have them in stock in your area).

Here's what the(Canine spectra®-5) vaccine looks like:

• Parainfluenza
• Canine Distemper
• Adenovirus Type 2 (CAV-2 cross protection CAV-1)
• Parvovirus Vaccine (MLV)

Storing and transporting your vaccines:

It's recommended that your vaccines are stored in a refrigerator at all times. If you have a long trip from the feed store, to your home, it's recommended to transport the vaccines in a cooler with ice.

Preparation:

Clean and disinfect the area using a cotton ball soaked in hydrogen peroxide.

Where to give your dog their shot:

The best way to give your dog their vaccines is just beneath the skin.

The least sensitive area is located on the loose skin over either shoulder.

Avoid giving your dog their vaccine between their should blades.

How to give your dog their shot:

Preparing the vaccination

1. Using the syringe provided, inject the liquid into the powder containing vial and shake until mixed.
2. Let the formula settle for 60 seconds
3. Extract the entire mixed vial into the syringe
4. Make sure there are no air bubbles in the syringe before administering.  (If air bubbles are noticed tap the syringe until they have dissolved and dispose of the air through the syringe.)

Administering the vaccine

1. Lift the skin above the shoulder
2. Insert the needle just beneath the dog's skin then pull back slightly on the syringe plunger to be sure the needle is not in a blood vessel (if blood return is seen, pull out the needle and redirect).
3. Administer the liquid using the syringe plunger
4. Discard the syringe immediately after use in a biohazard container.  NEVER use a syringe more than once.

How often do I give my dog vaccines?

Vaccinate your puppy starting at 9 weeks of age.  Revaccinate your puppy every 3-4 weeks until 14-16 weeks of age.

1 additional shot should be give annually.

Additional questions?

If you have any questions about vaccinating your pet at home, please feel free to call one of Spectra's® representatives at 1-800-381-7179.