You should also avoid taking your puppy where he may come into contact with unvaccinated dogs until at least two weeks after his second parvovirus injection. The first vaccination usually does not generate much immunity alone. Puppies are born with some immunity to canine diseases because antibodies from the queen pass through the placenta. But over a puppy's first few weeks of life, these antibodies slowly start to decrease. This leaves a young pup susceptible to diseases like parvovirus, so vaccines are very important.
Here are some tips for walking your puppy after he has been fully vaccinated:
- Start slowly and gradually increase the length of your walks as your puppy's stamina improves.
- Avoid walking your puppy in areas where there is a high risk of exposure to parvovirus, such as dog parks or public trails.
- Keep your puppy on a leash at all times to prevent him from coming into contact with unvaccinated dogs or contaminated soil.
- Bring poop bags with you to clean up after your puppy.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling your puppy or his leash.