Pet Corner with Budget Vets

I want to buy my girlfriend a dog for her birthday. I am not sure whether to buy a puppy or adopt a dog from a rescue home. I am concerned that if I buy a puppy there will be the added expenses of vaccinations. Can you help me please?

Like humans pets also have to be protected from potentially life threatening infections and vaccinations are therefore an essential to guard against diseases like parvo.

Puppies are especially susceptible to diseases as their immunity is so low. You should not expose your puppy to unvaccinated animals or places where other animals can roam freely such as local parks until they have completed their course of vaccinations.

Puppies are normally vaccinated from eight weeks old and your local veterinary surgery will be able to implement a vaccination plan for you to follow. It is important that you ensure your puppy completes the full course. Even pets that live indoors should be vaccinated as they can be exposed to diseases and infections from other animals.

If you are considering taking on an older dog, charities and animal sanctuaries usually ensure that all vaccinations are up-to-date, however always check this out with the organization beforehand.

Vaccinations start from £16.00 per pet, however many surgeries often partake in promotions so look out for special offers. It is important to remember that no matter how old the animal is, yearly booster vaccinations will be needed to ensure that they have ongoing immunity from diseases and infections.

For more information please visit www.budgetvets.co.uk, pop into the surgery on Malpas Road or call 01633 855825.