Wilkes County Veterinary Services

706-678-2929 Now that summer is officially here, many of us are planning those lovely vacation getaways. The kids are out of school and time is in short supply for daily activities. While budgeting time and money for kids' activities, do not forget your furry friends and their visits to your veterinarian. It is absolutely ESSENTIAL puppies and kittens get their first shots for protection from viral diseases. When puppies and kittens nurse the first milk from their mother they acquire antibodies for protection. These are only temporary. Some animal's protection lasts as little as six weeks, or it can last up to sixteen weeks. This is why several shots are recommended start

06/29/2006-1c ing at 6 weeks for puppies and at 3-week intervals until they are 16 weeks old. Kittens should receive their first shots at 8 weeks, and receive boosters at 4-week intervals until 16 weeks old. At 12 weeks of age your pet can receive its rabies shot. It is required by law for your pets to receive a rabies vaccine, even if they are indoors. Parvovirus is a very real threat to your puppies and adult dogs as well. If your dog becomes tired and lazy, stops eating, begins vomiting, and/or has diarrhea, it may have been exposed to parvo. This virus is easier to treat before the dog becomes very sick. Your puppy can die if not treated. Please contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your puppy has these symptoms or has been exposed.