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My chihuahua had two puppies. The mom is 3.5lbs full grown and the pups are tiny. At 7 weeks, one day old they're just starting to ween. Since they're so small, is it okay to get their first set of shots now? Or is it better to wait a week? Also, if they only get half doses of the vaccine is it still effective? Finally, which first vaccine do you recommend? I'm concerned about adverse reactions.

-- Contributed by: rita

My four year old toy poodle has pancretist and last time she had her shots, it kicked the level of her pancreas to 1000. She went from 10lbs. to 5lbs. and I almost lost her. Is the 6 way necessary every year. I am scared to death.

Thank You

Hi June,

There's been a lot of debate about whether dogs need a booster every year or if one every three years is sufficient. Given your dog's health circumstances, I recommend you discuss this with your vet, and don't be afraid to get a second opinion. Also keep in mind that rabies shots are mandatory, but boosters are not unless your municipality has legislation regarding them.

Thanks for your question.

-- Contributed by: June

Hi. My dog recently had puppies, and I was wondering if there was something that I co uld buy to give them as there 1st shots instead o ftaking them all to the vet. I have 11 of them. So i thought it might be cheaper to do it myself. Thank you.

Hi Lauren,

Some breeders do give their own vaccinations, but it's best to learn the technique directly from your vet. My suggestion is to take the litter for their first shots and ask your vet for instructions. This way you will know exactly which comibination shots to purchase as you follow through with the schedule. I've always found Doctors Foster and Smith to be a good source for vaccines and syringes.

Thanks for your question, and best of luck with your litter.

-- Contributed by: Lauren

hi i have a question i have a ratty he is now a year old he just turned a year old in dec 31 2007 i got him when he was 6-8 weeks old from a private breeder he did recieve some shots from the private breeder how ever that is all , i want to take him to the vet for iguess what is called a 5 series of shots but iam not sure what he would need for his age at a year old have any addvise! thank you

At one year of age and having had some early vaccination, it is not necessary to go through a series of five shots. Depending on what your dog received as a puppy, he may only need his one year booster and a rabies vaccination. Take whatever records you received from the breeder and let you vet decide exactly which boosters to give.

Thanks for your question.

-- Contributed by: bubblesbaby
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