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My puppy's vaccine was late. Is a new series or just a booster needed?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 4 months and 5 days old

I have a Lab X Lurcher puppy. When we brought the puppy the first immunisation shot was already provided and evidence of this has been given. Unfortunately, we ended up having the 14 week vaccination at 16 weeks (2 weeks late). The vet we used does not feel a new course of immunisations are required but a 3rd booster will be. Does this sound correct or are they just trying to gain extra money?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Elizabeth

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on December 6th, 2019

Yes, a third booster is required within the appropriate time line (2-4 weeks). Vaccines must be given in certain time frames to ensure they are effective. Vaccines given too late will not be effective. It's better to play it safe than risk disease.
One gentle reminder, the vast majority of veterinarian are not out to make money. As a profession, we are not rich. We make recommendations based upon the best health of the pet. I hope this helps.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 27th, 2017

    Great question! Yes Benji will need to return for his vaccines, but the amount of time between them depends on when he had his puppy vaccines. If he got all of his first vaccines last year, then he will need a booster of them this year. If he received a booster of his vaccines last year, then most of these vaccines can be received once every three years. This excludes the bordetella vaccine (kennel cough), which must be given yearly. I would call Petco to ask when he should get his next round of vaccines :-)

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 16th, 2017

    Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I recommend having your dogs vaccines boostered once a year. Most dogs receive their final vaccines between three and four months of age, so they would need their boosters at about 15-16 months. These vaccines include a rabies vaccine, a combination vaccine that includes distemper/adenovirus/parvovirus and kennel cough where required. Depending on your area and your dogs lifestyle, they may need a Lyme disease and leptospirosis vaccine. If possible, I recommend bringing any records you may have to your vaccine appointment.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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