Vaccine & Parasite Prevention
Your puppy’s immune system is still developing, which makes routine vaccines and parasite prevention essential in the first few months of life. We’ve already taken the first steps here at Ohio Valley Labradoodles, and you’ll continue that care with your vet
Immunity
First let’s talk immunity. Puppies get their immunity from their mama. As puppies are weaned that immunity wears off and they become vulnerable. We give their first vaccination a few days before their 8-week birthday. The vaccine schedule has the dates outlined including what they will already have had and the vaccines that they will need.
Vaccination Schedule
We follow a conservative, health-first vaccine protocol that prioritizes long-term immunity and safety. Your puppy will go home with their first round of shots already completed.
8 Weeks - DAP (already done)
12 Weeks - DAP
16 weeks DAP
Rabies 6 months
Vaccines should be given thoughtfully and never overloaded. Australian Labradoodles, like many sensitive breeds, can have adverse reactions when too many vaccinations are given at once. Over-vaccinating especially giving multiple shots in a single visit can put your puppy at risk for serious health issues, including neurological damage.
Please be aware: If your puppy receives multiple vaccines at once or is over-vaccinated, it will void your health warranty. We take the long-term well-being of our puppies seriously, and part of that is advocating for responsible vaccine practices.
Vaccinations should be spaced at least two weeks apart to give your puppy’s immune system time to respond properly. You are your puppy’s advocate at the vet. Don’t be afraid to speak up, ask questions, and decline unnecessary or bundled vaccinations.
Protecting your Puppy from Parvo
Parvo is a virus you never want to experience firsthand. It is highly contagious, often deadly, and extremely difficult (and expensive) to treat. The most vulnerable window for your puppy is between 8 to 16 weeks of age this is when their immune system is still developing, and they’re not yet fully protected by vaccines.
Carry Your Puppy!
To protect your puppy from Parvo and other contagious diseases, it’s important to carry your puppy anytime you’re in a high-traffic area this includes places like sidewalks, parking lots, pet stores, and especially the veterinarian’s office. Until your puppy has completed their full round of vaccinations, their immune system is still developing, and even a quick step on contaminated ground can expose them to harmful viruses. At the vet, carry your puppy from the car to the exam room, or keep them in a clean crate or carrier. Avoid letting them walk on the lobby floor or interact with other animals. These small precautions can make a big difference in keeping your puppy safe during this vulnerable stage.
Remove your Shoes
One simple but powerful way to protect your puppy is by removing your shoes when entering the home and storing them where your puppy cannot reach them. Shoes can carry bacteria, viruses, and traces of infected feces from public places—even if you didn’t realize you stepped in anything. Puppies are curious and love to chew on shoes, which puts them at direct risk.
Survival Rates
If a puppy contracts Parvo, survival chances are only about 50/50, and treatment typically costs between $4,000 and $7,000. Distemper is even more serious, with only a 10% survival rate once symptoms begin. Another great reason to consider pet insurance. But at the least sign up for the free 30 days offer through Trupanion.
Easy Transmission
These viruses can be transmitted in unexpected ways. Parvo is so contagious that even a fly landing on infected waste and then landing in your puppy’s water bowl can transmit the virus. You can unknowingly carry it on your shoes after walking through places like pet stores, sidewalks, or dog parks.
High Traffic Areas
If you have an older dog in the home who is fully vaccinated, it’s still important to keep them out of high-traffic areas (like pet stores, dog parks, or grooming facilities) until your puppy is fully vaccinated. While your older dog may be protected, they can still carry the virus home on their fur or paws—and unknowingly expose your puppy.
The best protection during these early weeks is prevention. Be cautious, clean, and limit your puppy’s exposure until their full vaccine series is complete. It’s a small window of time with lifelong benefits.