I Don't Have My Dog's Vaccine History. What Should I Do?

Question:
I just adopted a 3 mo old yellow lab and am unsure of her shot history. She came from a friend of a friend who breeds them. We have her papers, but no shot records though I was told she was given (3) 7 way shots. My vet wants a record or a label of the brand but no one seems to know how to get a hold of him. What do I do?

A:  I would recommend starting with the recommended vaccines for your dog at the age your dog is now. 

I doesn't hurt to double up on vaccines.  I would recommend starting with the vaccine series based on your pet's age.  The vaccine schedule is set up for puppies based on the strength of their immune system, not their previous history.  If your dog were any older dog, I would recommend at least 2 Distemper/Parvovirus vaccines.  But, since you have a younger dog, I would just start with those vaccines needed at 12 weeks of age:  Bordetella, Distemper/Parvo, Stool check.  Then at 16 weeks of age your dog should get a Rabies vaccine, a Distemper/Parvo booster, and possibly a stool check.  At 20 weeks of age, your dog will get its last Distemper/Parvo booster and then be good on vaccines for 1 year.

Have your veterinarian just start the vaccine protocol based on your dog's age.

~Dr. Page Wages

Oberlin Animal Hospital