Most pet owners visit their vets several times in the first year of their dogs’ lives for vaccination shots. The shots immunize puppies from several fatal diseases such as rabies, parvo, and distemper. But how much do these shots cost? And how often do they need to be administered? You can expect to pay between $323.40-$407.40 annually, depending on the package you choose.
If you’re looking for more affordable options, you might prefer PetSmart for the puppy shots. This brief overview discusses the average cost of puppy shots at PetSmart in 2024 and other related questions.
Cost of Vaccination Shots per Puppy
PetSmart prices are displayed in US dollars. However, you can also see Canadian pricing on their website. Prices, offerings, and selections on the internet and in stores may differ and are subject to change. The fee comes in different payment packages for puppy vaccinations. These packages are as follows:
Early care package
One-time membership fee – puppy early care costs: $39.95
Monthly payment – puppy early care costs: $26.95
Annual cost – puppy early care costs: $323.40
Estimated 1st-year savings with all services provided: $499.52
Early care plus package
One-time membership fee: $39.95
Monthly payment: $33.95
Annual cost: $407.40
Estimated 1st-year savings with all services provided: $715.47
Is It Safe to Let My Puppy Out Without Vaccination Shots?
A puppy’s immune system is still weak before they get the first shot. If you let your puppy out without vaccination shots, you expose them to fatal diseases like rabies, which can spread to humans. Such illnesses are always a risk to puppies and unvaccinated dogs.
Other diseases, such as distemper and parvo, can also lead to fatalities in young puppies. Thus, it is crucial to have your puppy vaccinated and keep them away from other unvaccinated puppies.
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How Many Vaccinations Do Puppies Need?
At PetSmart, puppies typically receive four rounds of immunization shots within their first 16–20 weeks of life. The first shot is administered when the puppy is 6–8 weeks old. At this age, the puppy will get a vaccination shot against distemper, parvovirus, and Bordetella, which is optional.
At 9–11 weeks, the puppy receives DHPP vaccines for adenovirus [hepatitis], distemper, parvovirus, and parainfluenza. Depending on your veterinarian’s recommendation, you can also order other optional vaccinations for influenza, Bordetella, leptospirosis, and Lyme disease.
At 12–15 weeks, the puppy will receive a DHPP rabies vaccine. At 16–20 weeks, the final shot, which protects them from rabies, will be administered. According to the puppy’s lifestyle, a veterinarian could recommend optional shots for influenza, leptospirosis, Lyme disease, and Bordetella.
What Are Core Dog Vaccinations?
Core dog vaccinations are the necessary vaccines that all puppies should receive. As mentioned above, they include distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus, and rabies.
Puppy shots that are considered non-core dog vaccinations might be recommended for your pet, depending on their lifestyle.
The benefits of puppy shots are vast. They protect puppies from deadly diseases, help with their overall health and wellness, and can even provide lifetime immunity from some fatal illnesses. Puppies that receive vaccinations on the proper schedule are typically healthier and have a longer life expectancy.
What If My Puppy Misses a Vaccination?
If your puppy misses a vaccination, it is not the end of it. PetSmart is more than happy to administer the shot at a later date. However, it is crucial to note that the earlier the administration of the shots, the better. A puppy’s immune system is still developing and is most susceptible to disease in the early stages.
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Can I Vaccinate My Puppy By Myself?
It is always best to have your puppy vaccinated by a veterinarian.
Vaccinations are complex procedures that require the proper dosage and method of administration to protect the puppy from fatal diseases. A veterinarian can ensure that your dog gets vaccinated in the safest way possible.
The CDC states that the vaccine should be administered subcutaneously. It is not safe to take it orally or topically since it will not provide the desired protection to the puppy.
A veterinarian is likelier to have the latest vaccine and be up-to-date with the latest immunization schedules.
Puppies need to be evaluated for their health condition before they are vaccinated. Some puppies might not be healthy enough to get some of the shots. For example, a puppy with a heart murmur should not receive the rabies vaccine.
A veterinarian can also discuss the best way to keep your puppy healthy. This includes annual examinations, deworming, heartworm testing, urine tests, and fecal tests.
Vaccinations are essential in protecting your puppy from deadly diseases. They are also crucial to keep your puppy healthy.
After How Long Do Shots Take Full Effect?
After the first round of puppy shots, the protection takes 7–10 days to take effect. This time is known as the waiting period. It is crucial not to take your puppy out during this time and keep them away from other vaccinated puppies. The second round takes 14–21 days to take full effect.
The third round takes around 21–30 days before it has an effect. However, it is recommended that puppies receive both yearly boosters after their first year. If your puppy goes outside frequently, you will need the vaccine more regularly in a year.
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How Many Shots Do Puppies Need Before Going Outside?
Most veterinarians recommend that puppies wait until their final set of puppy shots at 16-18 weeks old. However, if the puppy has received proper immunization, they may be safe to be outside as early as 12 weeks. After the first shot, puppies must wait 7–10 days before going outside. However, they can go outside to use the bathroom.
After the second shot, the puppy should wait 14–21 days before going outdoors safely. At this time, you can take the puppy out for a walk. However, do not let them interact with other dogs. Wait until the veterinarian has administered the third and fourth shots before allowing your puppy to mingle with others. After the waiting period, the puppy can interact with other dogs or go outdoors freely.
Remember that each puppy is different and that you should always check with your veterinarian for the best advice on when it is safe for your puppy to go outside.
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Summing Up
All this information about puppy shots may seem overwhelming, but it is essential for your puppy’s health. Vaccines protect your pup from disease and are not as expensive as other veterinary services and products. PetSmart has several experienced veterinarians on-site who can provide all the services your puppy needs. You can vaccinate your young dog at PetSmart and use their services to keep them healthy.
Featured Image Credit: gorillaimages, Shutterstock
Nicole has loved animals of all sizes her whole life so it's no wonder she has dedicated her career to helping them through what she loves best: learning, writing, and sharing knowledge with others. She’s the proud mom of two dogs, a cat, and a human. With a degree in Education and 15+ years of writing experience, Nicole wants to help pet parents and pets around the planet to live happy, safe, and healthy lives.
What Are Core Dog Vaccinations?
What Are Core Dog Vaccinations?
