Vaccinations, when given regularly, give dogs long-term, lifetime protection against the serious and sometimes fatal diseases caused by viruses. Once in the blood stream, a vaccine mimics a particular virus or bacteria, triggering the body's own immune response. After that, the immune response is ready and prepared to fight any future infection by that virus.

Puppies should begin vaccinations as early as six weeks up to twelve weeks of age, so schedule a visit to your vet as soon as you can. Most vaccines are injected as part of a series, and one year after the last in the series, your dog will need boosters. Vaccination protocols may vary, so follow your vet's recommended vaccination programme. Your vet will also be able to advise you on the range of vaccinations your dog should take, but among the most common are the following:

Canine Distemper
A highly contagious virus affecting respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems which can be fatal. It generally spreads as an airborne infection, with vaccination the only effective control.
When: Injections as early as six weeks to twelve weeks, followed by boosters. Can be given in combination with other vaccines.

Infectious Canine Hepatitis (Adenovirus)
This viral disease affects the liver, kidneys and the cells lining the blood vessels, causing high fever, thirst, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, liver damage and haemorrhage.
When: The initial vaccination is given as a series, beginning as early as six weeks, and is often combined with vaccinations against distemper.

Parvovirus
A common but deadly viral infection with symptoms including severe diarrhoea, fever and vomiting.
When: A series of vaccinations as early as six weeks to twenty weeks, followed by booster vaccines.

Leptospirosis
A bacteria that affects the kidney and liver.
When: A series, beginning at eight weeks, followed by boosters, which can be given in combination with other vaccines.

Parainfluenza Virus (Bordatella)
One of the causes of "kennel cough," this virus is highly contagious and attacks the respiratory system.
When: Initial inoculations are given as early as six weeks, followed by boosters.