Puppy vaccinations are basically of two types, necessary vaccines which are required for all puppies, and recommended vaccines which may protect your pet from diseases specific to his breed or the area you live in. The vaccines will involve some costs and you should know that the first year will require several financial commitments for your pet. The costs of the vaccines may not be the same in all areas and at all vet clinics.
Average Costs for Puppy Shots
While you will find great differences among the quotes you get for the puppy vaccinations, the average costs will be around $80. These vaccines will include the core vaccines, which are administered in three series. The core vaccines include the DHLPP (distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvo and parainfluenza) and will be administered when the puppy is 6, 12 and 16 weeks old.
In addition to the DHLPP vaccines, the puppy should also get the rabies vaccine, which is $15 to $20. The average costs are around $100 for all the vaccines needed.
The costs for the initial puppy vaccinations (during the first year) are higher than the costs of the vaccines needed in the following years. The booster shots may cost between $15 and $50 per year, depending on where you get them.
Factors that Influence the Costs of Vaccines
You may find that the costs of the vaccines for a puppy vary from $20 to $150 or even higher. The costs may depend on several factors such as:
- Location; the costs can vary in the country but may also differ within your city
- The clinic where the shots are administered, and whether you administer the shots at home or at a shelter
- What other vaccines are recommended for your pet, according to your geographical location (mosquito area/tick area) or according to what diseases the dog may be exposed to
Additional Vaccination Costs
The costs of the vaccines will include the core vaccines (all three series). Some vet clinics include the costs of the rabies shot, while others will charge you extra. Make sure to clarify. You will also have to pay for the extra non core vaccines recommended by your vet.
Lower Costs for Puppy Vaccines
If you are looking to get the lowest costs for puppy vaccinations, ask around at several vet clinics for quotes. You are very likely to find discounts at animal shelters that will administer the vaccines for free or for a sum of up to $20. If you adopt a pet from a shelter, he will be most likely vaccinated, so you won't have to worry about the vaccination.
Another option to reduce the costs of puppy vaccinations is to order the core vaccines online and administer them yourself. However, if you don't know how to give injections, it's better if you leave the task to a professional.