Puppies start life with a protective boost from their mother’s milk, which provides crucial antibodies to shield them in their early weeks. However, these antibodies can also get in the way of vaccinations, making it tricky to give them full protection from the start.  Maternal antibodies are specifically designed to recognize and neutralize pathogens. When a vaccine introduces a weakened or inactivated form of a virus or bacteria (antigen), these antibodies can mistakenly identify the vaccine’s antigens as harmful invaders. The maternal antibodies can bind to the vaccine's antigens and neutralize them before the puppy’s own immune system has a chance to respond. This neutralization means that the vaccine may not stimulate the puppy's immune system effectively. As your puppy’s immune system matures, these maternal antibodies gradually fade, but they can still neutralize the vaccine before the puppy’s immune system can respond effectively.

This is why a single vaccine isn’t enough. The series of vaccinations, starting at 6 to 8 weeks of age and continuing every 3 to 4 weeks until around 16 weeks, is designed to ensure that the puppy’s immune system develops strong and lasting protection. Each dose helps to bridge the gap between the fading maternal antibodies and your puppy’s developing immune system. This series builds a strong, lasting defense against serious diseases like distemper, parvovirus, and rabies.

Completing the entire series is crucial for ensuring your puppy is well-protected. Delaying or skipping vaccinations until maternal antibodies are gone would leave your puppy vulnerable to infections during this critical period.

THIS IS A TWO SHOT VACCINE SERIES.

Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the brain and nervous system, transmitted through saliva of an infected animal via bites or scratches. It causes severe neurological symptoms and is nearly always deadly once symptoms appear. California law mandates that dogs over 4 months old must be vaccinated against rabies. This vaccine must be administered by a California-licensed veterinarian. Our rabies vaccination series includes two shots: the first at 4 months of age and a booster at one year. After this initial series, a booster is required every three years. 

THIS IS A THREE YEAR VACCINE.

The DHPP vaccine is a powerhouse of protection for your puppy! This core combo vaccine shields against four serious diseases: Distemper, Hepatitis (Canine Adenovirus), Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza. 

The DHPP vaccine series starts at 6 to 8 weeks old, with booster shots every 3 to 4 weeks until your puppy is 16 weeks. After the initial series and a one-year booster, this vaccine will keep your pet protected with just a boost every three years!

THIS IS A TWO SHOT VACCINE SERIES.

Leptospirosis is a sneaky bacterial infection that can cause everything from fever to serious liver or kidney damage. It loves warm, damp environments and is spread through the urine of infected animals—think wild rodents running around. Since it's quite common in Sonoma County, we’ve made this vaccine a core part of our protection plan.

Your pup will start the two-shot series at 12 weeks old, with the second dose given 2-4 weeks later. After that, it’s an annual booster. 

THIS IS A THREE YEAR VACCINE. 

The rabies vaccine is legally required for dogs over 4 months old in California, as it protects against the rabies virus, a serious and often fatal disease that affects the nervous system and can be transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Rabies is a public health concern due to its zoonotic nature—meaning it can spread from animals to humans. Once symptoms appear, the disease is nearly always fatal. Early signs in dogs can include changes in behavior, aggression, restlessness, and neurological symptoms like seizures or difficulty swallowing. As the disease progresses, it causes severe inflammation of the brain, leading to paralysis and eventually death.   Not only does this vaccine protect your dog from a severe illness, but it also helps prevent legal issues, as unvaccinated pets may face quarantine or euthanasia if they bite someone. 

The vaccine is given in a two-shot series: the first dose at 16 weeks old and a booster at one year. After that, your dog will need a booster every three years. 

THIS IS A THREE YEAR VACCINE. 

This core combination vaccine protects against four major diseases: Distemper, Hepatitis (Canine Adenovirus), Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza.

• Distemper is a highly contagious virus causing severe respiratory and neurological issues, such as seizures and muscle twitching. 
• Hepatitis targets the liver, leading to symptoms like fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, and jaundice. 
• Parvovirus is notorious for causing severe gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and dehydration, and spreads easily through contaminated feces. 
• Parainfluenza, on the other hand, results in respiratory infections with symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge. 

After the initial series and a one-year booster, your pet will only need a booster every three years to stay protected.

THIS IS AN ANNUAL VACCINE.

Leptospirosis is a severe bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria, which can severely damage the liver and kidneys along with potential respiratory issues and dehydration that can be life-threatening if left untreated. The bacteria primarily spread through the urine of infected animals like rodents (rats and mice), wildlife (such as raccoons, possums, skunks, and deer), and occasionally domestic pets. It’s transmitted when pets encounter water, soil, or surfaces tainted with the urine of infected animals, with the bacteria entering the body through cuts, scrapes, or mucous membranes such as the eyes, nose, or mouth. Unfortunately these bacteria can linger in water, soil, or damp areas for weeks to months, posing a risk even to indoor pets if they come into contact with contaminated substances or areas around the house. Because it is endemic in Sonoma County the Lepto vaccine is one of our core vaccines. After completing the puppy series, it becomes an annual booster to maintain fully immunity. 

The DHLPP vaccine is a comprehensive 5-in-1 combination shot that covers Distemper, Hepatitis (Canine Adenovirus), Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, and Leptospirosis.

•  Distemper : A highly contagious virus causing severe respiratory and neurological issues, such as coughing, fever, and seizures.
•  Hepatitis (Canine Adenovirus) : Targets the liver, leading to symptoms like jaundice, fever, and abdominal pain.
• Parvovirus : Known for severe gastrointestinal problems, including vomiting and diarrhea, and spreads easily through contaminated feces.
• Parainfluenza : A respiratory infection causing coughing and nasal discharge.
• Leptospirosis : Caused by bacteria from the urine of infected wildlife, leading to severe liver and kidney damage, with symptoms like fever and vomiting.It’s particularly important in areas like Sonoma County.

The DHPP part of the DHLPP vaccine keeps your dog protected for three years, while the Lepto component requires an annual booster. With the DHLPP, you’re ensuring your dog gets a powerful combo of long-lasting immunity with a streamlined vaccination schedule!

THIS IS AN ANNUAL VACCINE.

The Bordetella vaccine protects against kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses. Kennel cough spreads through airborne droplets and direct contact with infected dogs, making it common in crowded environments like kennels, dog parks, and grooming salons. Symptoms can include a persistent, harsh cough, runny nose, and sometimes mild fever, though it is usually not severe. While it’s usually not life-threatening, it can develop into more serious conditions like pneumonia, particularly in puppies, older dogs, or those with compromised immune systems.We offer Bordetella vaccinations in both oral and injectable forms for the same price, allowing you to choose the best option for your dog’s temperament, preference, and comfort.

The Bordetella vaccine can be given as early as 6-8 weeks old, and your dog will need a booster shot every year to stay protected.

THIS IS AN ANNUAL VACCINE. THIS IS A SERIES VACCINE.

Canine influenza, or dog flu, is an airborne viral infection that spreads easily through respiratory secretions— coughing, barking, or sneezing from an infected dog. It can also linger on surfaces and objects like water bowls, collars, and kennel surfaces, or even transfer via people who have been in contact with an infected dog. Canine influenza can cause symptoms like coughing, nasal discharge, and fever. Because this flu can be particularly stubborn and spread quickly, the vaccine is highly recommended for all dogs with higher exposure risks. 

The vaccine starts with a series of two injections given 2-3 weeks apart, beginning at 6-8 weeks of age. After the initial shots, a yearly booster helps ensure your pet stays protected in high-risk environments. 

THIS IS AN ANNUAL VACCINE. THIS IS A SERIES VACCINE.

Lyme disease is a tick-borne bacterial infection caused by *Borrelia burgdorferi* or, less commonly, *Borrelia mayonii*. It’s transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged tick, also known as a deer tick. Just one bite is all it takes for the bacteria enter your dog’s bloodstream, from there it can spread to various parts of the body and wreak havoc on your dog’s health. Symptoms can include fever, lameness, joint swelling, and loss of appetite, with severe cases potentially resulting in kidney failure, heart problems, or neurological complications. These tiny ticks often lurk in wooded or grassy areas and can latch onto your dog during outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, or even just playing in the yard. Since Lyme disease is present here in Sonoma County, dogs that love to explore the outdoors or live in rural areas with tall grasses are at a higher risk.

Our Lyme disease vaccine that begins with a two-shot series: an initial vaccine followed by a booster 2-4 weeks later. After that, your dog will just need an annual booster to stay protected!

WE DON'T HAVE THE VACCINE IN OUR STOCK - CALL FIRST TO ORDER. 

Rattlesnake bites can be incredibly dangerous for dogs, especially in areas like Sonoma County, where these venomous snakes are common. The venom can cause intense pain, rapid swelling, bruising, and tissue damage at the bite site. In severe cases, it can lead to complications like difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, organ failure, or even paralysis if not treated quickly. Your dog might also show signs of drooling, lethargy, and shock, making immediate attention crucial.

The rattlesnake vaccine is designed to delay the onset of these symptoms and reduce their severity, giving your dog a fighting chance if they encounter a rattlesnake. However, it’s important to remember that this vaccine is not a cure. Even with vaccination, a rattlesnake bite is still an emergency that requires immediate veterinary care. The vaccine provides more time to get your dog to a hospital, but it doesn't offer complete immunity. You should always seek emergency treatment if your dog is bitten. The closest hospital to us that carries the antivenom is VCA Animal Care Center of Sonoma County, located at 6470 Redwood Dr, Rohnert Park, CA 94928. Always call ahead to ensure they have the antivenom on hand before heading there. Their phone number is (707) 584-4343.

If it’s your dog’s first time receiving the vaccine, they will need a booster 2-3 weeks after the initial shot. We don’t keep this vaccine in stock, so please call ahead to order it.