Are you wondering when can Irish setter puppies get their first shots? Yes, it was also my question when my pups first arrived. I had no idea when or where to start, as there’s so much information about vaccinations. It’s a crucial step in ensuring they grow healthy and strong, and as a responsible pet parent, I wanted to ensure I was doing everything right.
As it turns out, Irish Setter puppies can get their first shots as early as six weeks old, and it’s recommended that they receive a series of vaccinations until they’re about 16 weeks old. Vaccinating your puppy is important for preventing common and potentially serious diseases. So in this blog post, I will discuss when can Irish setter puppies get their first shots and provide you with a vaccination guide to help keep your puppy safe. Read on for all the info you need!
Understanding Puppy Vaccinations and Why They Are Necessary
Puppy vaccinations are injections of weakened or dead viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens given to puppies to strengthen their immune system and protect them from contracting serious diseases. Vaccines contain antigens that stimulate a dog’s immune system to create antibodies against the disease.
Thus, the primary reason for vaccinating our puppies is to prevent diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and other infections. Vaccines work to enhance the immune system of our little furry friends by exposing them to small amounts of viruses and bacteria. This exposure enables their body to develop the appropriate immune response to the illness, allowing them to fight it off if they encounter the real thing.
When Should Irish Setter Puppies Get Their First Vaccines?
So, when can Irish setter puppies get their first shots? I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about when your Irish Setter puppies should get their first vaccines and the core vaccines they should receive.
As per American Kennel Club, Irish Setter puppies should be vaccinated between the ages of 6-8 weeks, and the core vaccines should be given every 3 to 4 weeks until they are around 16 weeks old. When you bring your puppy home from the breeder, ensure they have already been given their first set of vaccines. Sticking to this schedule is crucial to ensure your puppy is fully protected against diseases.
Core Vaccines for Irish Setter Puppies:
Here are the core vaccines that Irish Setter puppies should receive:
Canine Hepatitis:
This viral infection affects the liver and can cause severe liver damage. Dogs can contract hepatitis by contacting infected body fluids or waste, including blood, saliva, and urine. Symptoms of canine hepatitis include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and lethargy. The disease can be fatal, particularly for puppies and unvaccinated dogs. The vaccine for canine hepatitis is critical for your Irish Setter’s health and is given as a part of the puppy vaccine series. Dogs should also receive a booster every three years.
Canine Distemper:
Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that affects a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous system. The disease can cause fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures, leading to death. Traces of the virus can remain in an infected area for months, so avoid areas where infected dogs have been. These dog breeds should receive the vaccine at six to eight weeks of age and then again every three years.
Rabies vaccination:
Rabies is a viral disease that can be fatal to dogs and humans. It’s transmitted through infected animals’ saliva and attacks the nervous system. If your Irish Setter bites someone, and it’s discovered that they’re not up-to-date on their rabies vaccine, they could be quarantined or put to sleep. So, it’s crucial to keep your dog’s rabies vaccine current.
Optional Vaccines:
Canine Parainfluenza:
This highly contagious respiratory virus can cause severe coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose. It’s easily spread in dog daycare centers, grooming salons, and parks. The best way to protect your Irish Setter from canine parainfluenza is by vaccinating them. The vaccine typically includes protection against other common respiratory viruses, such as Bordetella and Adenovirus.
Parvovirus:
Parvovirus infects dogs’ gastrointestinal tracts and is often fatal if not treated promptly. Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. The virus is transmitted by contact with infected feces and is highly contagious. The parvovirus vaccine can help protect your Irish Setter from this deadly disease.
Bordetella bronchiseptica:
This bacterium is the culprit behind Kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease among dogs. Bordetella can be easily contracted in places where dogs gather in close proximity, like dog parks, boarding facilities, or groomers. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge. Infected dogs need veterinary care, but vaccination is the best preventive measure against this disease. Your Irish Setter can receive vaccination through nasal drops or injections. Puppies must receive their first Bordetella vaccination at six to eight weeks of age and a booster every six months thereafter.
Lyme Disease :
Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi. The bite of an infected tick spreads it and can cause fever, joint pain, lameness, and loss of appetite in dogs. The best way to prevent Lyme disease is by vaccinating your Irish Setter puppy against it. Since ticks are active throughout the year, it’s essential to vaccinate your puppy against Lyme disease and keep them up-to-date on their annual boosters.
Leptospirosis:
It is a serious bacterial infection affecting dogs’ livers and kidneys. It’s caused by exposure to the urine of infected animals or contaminated soil or water, and it can be fatal if not treated promptly. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, dehydration, and lethargy. Vaccinating your Irish Setter against leptospirosis is the best way to prevent it.
These are the main vaccines every Irish setter puppy should receive to protect them from serious illnesses and diseases. Be sure to stick to the recommended puppy vaccination schedule and consult your vet if you have any questions.
5-in-1 or 4-in-1 Explained
Perhaps, you already heard but are not familiar with how this works. I was also confused at first, just like you. In the vaccines for puppies, you will hear something like a 5-in-1 vaccine or 4-in-1, etc. This combines multiple vaccines into one injection, and I will explain this further below.
The 5-in-1 or 4-in-1 vaccine is a combined vaccine that protects against five or four different diseases in one injection. These diseases include distemper, canine parvovirus, canine adenovirus 1 and 2, and sometimes canine parainfluenza virus. Some vaccine versions also protect against leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that can be fatal to dogs.
How Does it Work?
The vaccine works by stimulating the dog’s immune system to produce antibodies against the diseases it’s protecting against. Once the vaccine has been administered, the immune system will recognize the diseases and be ready to fight them off if the dog comes into contact with them.
Irish Setters, like all dogs, are susceptible to the diseases that the 5-in-1 or 4-in-1 vaccine protects against. These diseases can be extremely serious and sometimes fatal, especially in puppies and elderly dogs. By vaccinating your Irish Setter, you’re not only protecting them from potentially life-threatening illnesses, but you’re also protecting other dogs in your community.
Moreover, as with any vaccine, there is a small risk of side effects, but these are usually mild and short-lived. Some dogs may experience soreness or swelling at the injection site, while others may develop a slight fever or have a reduced appetite for a day or two. However, the benefits of protecting your dog far outweigh the risks of any potential side effects.
How to Prepare Your Irish Setter Puppy for Vaccination Day
Vaccination day can be daunting and stressful for you and your puppy. But don’t worry; I am excited to share some tips on preparing your Irish Setter puppy for vaccination day to make it a pleasant experience for you and your furry friend.
1: Schedule an Appointment with Your Vet
The first and most crucial step in preparing your Irish Setter puppy for vaccination day is to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Your vet will guide you on the appropriate vaccinations your puppy should receive based on age and health. Once you have your appointment, ensure you have a reminder set on your phone calendar to avoid missing the date. Also, always arrive at the clinic on time to reduce anxiety and make the experience less stressful for your puppy.
2: Keep Your Puppy Occupied before the Appointment
Irish Setter puppies have high-energy levels, so they can get anxious and agitated in new environments. To prepare your puppy for vaccination day, engage them in activities before the Appointment, such as playing with their favorite toys, going for walks, or practicing basic commands to keep them entertained and reduce nervousness.
3: Make the Crate Comfortable for Your Puppy
If your puppy is anxious about traveling in the car, ensure you make their crate or carrier as comfortable as possible. You can use a soft blanket or towel and add treats, toys, or familiar items to the crate to make your Irish Setter feel more at home. If your puppy has never used a crate or carrier before, it is advisable to introduce it gradually to avoid causing stress and make them comfortable using it.
4: Bring Your Puppy’s Favorite Treats and Toys
Bringing your Irish Setter puppy’s favorite treats and toys during vaccination day can be a great way to keep them relaxed and entertained. You can give them treats and toys before and after the Appointment to distract them from any discomfort they may experience during the vaccine. Besides, familiar items also provide comfort and help reduce anxiety.
5: Plan a Fun Day after the Appointment
Vaccinations can be stressful for your Irish Setter puppy. Planning a fun activity or treat the day after the Appointment can help them recover more comfortably. You can take them for a walk in the park or prepare their favorite meal, ensuring they get enough rest. Positive reinforcement is crucial to keep your dog happy and more willing to attend future vet appointments.
These are just a few tips on preparing your Irish Setter puppy for Vaccination Day. Just remember, if you have any questions or concerns about vaccinating your pup, don’t hesitate to contact your vet.
Tips on Caring for an Irish Setter Puppy After Their First Shots
After their first shots, your puppy may exhibit discomfort and need extra care. As a seasoned Irish Setter owner, here are some tips on caring for your pup after their first shots so they can feel better quickly.
✔️Monitor Your Puppy’s Behavior
When you take your puppy for their vaccinations, they may feel disoriented, tired, and just not themselves. After you bring them home, monitor their behavior closely. If you notice anything that seems unusual, such as excessive lethargy or prolonged crying, it might be best to contact your veterinarian for a check-up.
✔️Keep Them Hydrated
Ensure your puppy has enough water access, as they may feel uncomfortable after the shots. If they refuse to drink, you can use a small syringe or dropper to give them water during the first few hours. Gradually move back to the water bowl and observe they are drinking enough.
✔️Offer a Bland Meal
As a way to soothe their stomach, offer your puppy a small and simple meal. Boiled chicken or plain rice is an excellent option, as these will not upset their stomach further. Avoid ingredients like spices, fats, bones, or dairy. Make sure that your puppy eats at regular intervals and monitor their appetite during the day.
✔️Give Them Rest
After the shots, your puppy will want to sleep more than usual. Provide them with a comfortable, warm, and quiet place to rest. If you have a crate, consider using it. Ensure the temperature is comfortable and free from harsh lighting, loud noises, or disruption.
✔️Be Ready with the Right Medication
Your veterinarian will let you know if any medication is needed. Topical applications and vaccinations can cause pain and redness at the injection site. Over-the-counter medications like paracetamol or Tylenol are unsafe for dogs and should not be given without your veterinarian’s advice. Your vet may advise giving supplements regularly, such as fish oil or multivitamins, to boost their health.
Your puppy’s first shots may cause discomfort, but they should feel better in no time with the right care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Irish Setter puppies get their first shots before they are six weeks old?
No, Irish Setter puppies should not get their first vaccines before they are six weeks old. The puppies’ mother provides the necessary immunity through her milk until they are around six weeks old. The puppy may not form the much-needed immunity response if vaccinated before six weeks. After six weeks, the puppy can start receiving vaccines to ensure a strong immune system.
What is the first set of shots cost for Irish Setter puppies?
The cost of the first set of shots varies depending on where you live and the vet clinic you will be taking your pup to. Typically, the cost falls between $75 and $150. It is important to note that there may be additional charges for tests, prescription medications, and office visits in some cases. Any additional vaccinations required after the first set may require an extra fee.
Can I give the first shots to my Irish Setter puppy at home?
Giving your Irish Setter puppy the first shots at home is not recommended, even though it may seem tempting. It is because vaccines require careful handling, storage, and administration. Giving shots at home may not be sterile and could lead to infections. It is vital to have them administered by a trained professional vet who knows how to handle and administer vaccines and recognize any adverse reactions.
How long do the first shots protect Irish Setter puppies from diseases?
The protection the first set of shots provide for your Irish Setter puppy varies depending on the vaccine and ranges from 1-3 years. It is important to keep updated on when your pup’s next shots are due and ensure to visit your vet for boosters at the correct time intervals.
Can Irish Setter puppies be vaccinated if they have certain health conditions or are on medication?
The answer is not straightforward. Depending on the health condition or medication, an Irish Setter puppy can be vaccinated normally or may require specific precautions before administering the shot. These special precautions could be additional testing, medication, or a shorter puppy vaccination schedule. It is, therefore, important for Irish Setter puppy owners to consult their vets and let them know of any medications or health conditions the puppy may have.
Final Words
After raising my own litter of Irish setter puppies, I can tell you firsthand that getting them their first shots is a crucial step in their development. Vaccinating puppies is essential to preventive care and will ensure your pup lives a happy, healthy life. I know it can be challenging to watch your pup go through the discomfort of their first shots, but remember that if you take good care of them after the visit, they should be feeling back to normal in no time. If you have any questions or concerns about vaccinating your pup, don’t hesitate to contact your vet.
