Do's vs Don'ts
DO NOT take your puppy into public spaces like a dog park until they are fully vaccinated.
DO schedule playdates in your own yard with healthy, fully vaccinated dogs.
It's normal to prepare your puppy for life by socializing them with other dogs and people, and letting them explore new places. You should, however, minimize the risk of exposure to diseases and parasites in public spaces until your puppy is fully vaccinated.
DO NOT get off schedule for vaccines.
DO speak with your veterinarian about rescheduling any vaccine appointments.
To help your puppy build their immunity, staying on schedule with their vaccinations is important. If you need to reschedule for any reason, please discuss it with your veterinarian.
DO NOT isolate your puppy from external stimuli.
DO expose your puppy to the usual sights and sounds.
Using the vacuum, ringing the doorbell, accepting deliveries, and even inviting the neighbors over can help your puppy become accustomed to their surroundings. You can watch your puppy's body language for signs of anxiety such as ears pulled down or back, excessive barking, panting, shaking, and whining. Be sure to offer positive reinforcement whenever new stimuli are introduced to help your puppy.
DO NOT assume no symptoms means no parasites.
DO stay on schedule with your puppy's parasite protection.
Flea and tick protection is only one part of protecting your puppy from parasites. Protecting against heartworm disease, hookworms, and roundworms is also important. Parasite protection is not a one-time event, your dog needs protection from parasites year-round. Talk to your veterinarian about the best options. As your dog matures and is exposed to the world, parasites remain a threat.
Important Safety Information
NexGard® PLUS (afoxolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel chewable tablets) is safe for puppies at 8 weeks, weighing 4 pounds or more. The most frequently reported adverse reactions include diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and itching. Use with caution in dogs with a history of seizures or neurologic disorders. Dogs should be tested for existing heartworm infection prior to starting a preventive. For more information, click here for full prescribing information.
NexGard® COMBO (esafoxolaner, eprinomectin, and praziquantel topical solution) is for topical use only in cats. Safe for use in cats and kittens 8 weeks of age or older, weighing 1.8 pounds or more. Use with caution in cats with a history of seizures or neurologic disorders. The most frequently reported adverse reactions include vomiting, application site reactions, lethargy, and anorexia. If ingested, hypersalivation may occur. Avoid direct contact with application site until visibly dry. For more information, click here for full prescribing information.
NexGard® (afoxolaner) is for use in dogs only. Safe for use in puppies 8 weeks of age or older, weighing 4 pounds or more. The most frequently reported adverse reactions include vomiting, itching, lethargy, diarrhea, and lack of appetite. The safe use of NexGard in pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs has not been evaluated. Use with caution in dogs with a history of seizures or neurologic disorders. For more information, click here for full prescribing information.