De-worming: It is important to ensure that a de-worming schedule is adhered to, in order to prevent harmful parasites from affecting your pet. When these pests are allowed to grow, there will be a host of health complications.
The following is a suggested schedule for eradicating worms (check with your veterniarian for clarifications and ways to identify a worm infestation)- every fortnight for pups aged three months or younger, once a month for those between three and six months of age, once in two months for puppies between six and twelve months of age and after that point, every three months.
The first round of vaccinations include a 7-in-1 vaccination - First dose has to be given at 6 weeks if the pup has been on mother's milk for one month. Otherwise, vaccination has to be given as early as possible. The booster dose is given 3 weeks after the first dose after which it must be given annually. The 7-in-1 protects your pup from Canine Distemper, Hepatitis, Corona Viral Enteritis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus and Leptospirosis).The first anti-rabies vaccination is given when the puppy is three months old and the booster dose must be given annually.
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Both de-worming and vaccination on a regular basis are essential to avoid serious health problems for your pet. Your veterinarian will give you a vaccination card that will contain dates and names of vaccines given. Place this card in an easily visible place like on a refrigerator or on your desk and keep an eye out for the next cycle so you don't forget to get it done. If you're email-savvy, sign up for a free online reminder service like rememberthemilk.com or freminder.com that will send you email alerts when the next shot is due.
(The information in this article was compiled by volunteers of Blue Cross of India, Chennai in consultation with veterinarians)