Make sure that your puppy gets his required annual vaccinations.
Puppies often need more medical care and attention than their older counterparts. This is in part due to their quick growth during the first few years and also due to the vaccinations they typically receive during this time. Though there are not many requirements regarding canine vaccinations in Arizona, the Arizona Humane Society has additional vaccination suggestions and guidelines they hope Arizona's dog owners will follow for optimum health in their canine friends.
Rabies
All dogs three months of age or more must be licensed if they reside in the state of Arizona for a period of 30 consecutive days or more within one calendar year, according to the Arizona State Legislature. In order be licensed, there must be proof of the dog having received a rabies vaccination. This consists of a, "vaccination certificate signed by a veterinarian stating the owner's name and address, and giving the dog's description, date of vaccination, manufacturer and serial number of the vaccine used and date re-vaccination is due."
Vaccination Frequency
The first rabies vaccination is good for one year, according to the Arizona Humane Society. Thereafter, rabies vaccines are good for a period of three years. However, if your dog bites someone and is quarantined, he will likely be vaccinated against rabies again immediately, to be on the safe side. Keep proof of your puppy's rabies vaccination record handy in case of such an incident.
Other Vaccinations
While Arizona law does not legally require dog owners to provide additional vaccinations for their puppies, the Arizona Humane Society provides additional information on the subject of canine vaccinations. Specifically, the Arizona Humane Society provides a detailed schedule for puppy vaccinations suggested during the first several weeks of life. This involves a total of four DA2PP vaccinations, which are Distemper/Parvo combination vaccinations, given at six to eight weeks, nine to 11 weeks, 12 to 14 weeks and 15 to 17 weeks. Additionally, a one-year rabies vaccination should be given at 12 to 14 weeks, along with the Bordetella vaccination for kennel cough. The Bordetella vaccine should be administered once more at 15 to 17 weeks of age. Having your puppy de-wormed at each visit is also recommended.
Unvaccinated Dogs
If your dog is not vaccinated, you can not get a license for her. Additionally, if she bites someone and quarantine becomes necessary, she will likely be put to sleep. This is so that she can be checked for presence of the rabies virus and treatment immediately begun on the bite victim. Avoid this by having your puppy vaccinated against rabies at a minimum, even if you choose not to have other vaccinations performed.
Adoption Requirements
If you choose to adopt a puppy from the Arizona Humane Society, he will receive his necessary and age-appropriate vaccinations prior to being released to your care. Additionally, your puppy will be surgically sterilized. The fees associated with adoption also cover a follow-up visit with a veterinarian.
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