This article was approved by Lemonade’s favorite vet, Dr. Stephanie Liff.
Keeping your puppy healthy is super important, and vaccinations are a key part of that. On average, you can generally expect to pay between $30 and $100 for the 7-in-1 puppy shot in 2024.
Understanding the importance of these shots, the diseases they prevent, and the costs involved can help you make informed decisions for your furry friend. Let’s explore everything you need to know about the 7-in-1 puppy vaccination.
What is the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine?
The 7-in-1 puppy vaccine is a combination shot designed to protect your dog against seven different diseases all within one shot or “poke”.
These 7 diseases include:
1. Canine distemper virus
Canine distemper is a highly infectious disease that can wreak havoc on a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are particularly vulnerable, and the virus spreads through airborne exposure, such as sneezing and coughing from infected dogs.
Common signs of Distemper include:
- Persistent coughing
- Fever
- Nasal discharge
- Gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhea.
Distemper can be fatal, especially in younger dogs or those with weaker immune systems. According to the AVMA, about one in two dogs will die from this virus, and dogs that do survive usually have permanent, irreversible damage to their nervous system. While there is no cure, supportive care, including fluids and medications to combat secondary infections, can mitigate symptoms.
Due to the severity of this illness, vaccinating your pup against distemper is essential to keep them safe.
2. Adenovirus Type 1 (Hepatitis)
Primarily affecting the liver, this virus poses a significant threat, particularly to unvaccinated dogs and those with compromised health. Dogs can become infected with this disease via contact with infected urine, feces, or saliva.
Symptoms often include:
- Fever
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Jaundice
While the infection can be serious and there is no cure, the fatality rate is significantly reduced with timely vaccination and treatment. The mortality rate for adenovirus ranges from 10 to 30%, according to Merck Veterinary Manual.
Treatment for infected pups includes supportive care, focusing on maintaining hydration and managing symptoms. Preventative vaccination is the most effective strategy to avoid contracting this potentially deadly virus.
3. Adenovirus Type 2 (Respiratory Disease)
This virus is known to cause kennel cough, a common respiratory issue in dogs (similar to a human cold). It spreads through little droplets when dogs sneeze or cough, so pups hanging out in doggy daycares or dog parks have a higher risk of catching it.
Symptoms are typically mild, including:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
While not usually fatal, the disease can cause discomfort and secondary infections. Treatment usually involves supportive care. This might mean rest, a cozy spot to recuperate, plenty of fluids, and sometimes medication prescribed by your vet to help manage symptoms and prevent any bacterial infections from tagging along.
4. Parainfluenza
Another contributor to kennel cough, parainfluenza spreads quickly through respiratory droplets. Social dogs that love spending their time at parks or kennels are at a higher risk of contracting the parainfluenza.
Symptoms can include
- Coughing
- Fever
- Nasal discharge
Parainfluenza is generally not life-threatening. However, it’s important to keep an eye on your dog if they catch it, because it could escalate to more serious conditions, like pneumonia.
Treating parainfluenza usually involves supportive care, including keeping your pup hydrated, providing a warm and restful environment, and sometimes using medications prescribed by your vet to ease symptoms.
5. Parvovirus
This virus is notorious for its severe impact on puppies, causing intense gastrointestinal distress. The highly contagious nature of parvovirus means it spreads swiftly through direct contact with infected dogs or contaminated feces.
Symptoms include:
- Severe vomiting
- Diarrhea, often bloody
- Dehydration
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Lethargy
Puppies aged six weeks to six months are particularly susceptible, especially if unvaccinated. The virus is transmitted through direct and indirect contact by sniffing, licking, or eating contaminated feces or surfaces, such as kennels, food or water bowls, and collars or leashes.
Parvovirus has high fatality rates, especially in untreated puppies. Immediate veterinary intervention is crucial for infected pups, focusing on intensive supportive care, including intravenous fluids and medications to manage symptoms and prevent dehydration. According to the AKC, the survival rate of parvo is 68 to 92%, if the dog receives prompt veterinary care.
Due to the severity of the infection, vaccinating your pup is crucial to keep them safe.
6. Leptospira Canicola
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can affect both dogs and humans. It’s spread through the urine of infected animals and can contaminate water sources. Dogs that roam outdoors and interact with wildlife or contaminated water sources have a higher risk of contracting the virus.
The symptoms of leptospirosis can vary widely but commonly include:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Muscle pain
- Lethargy
In severe cases, the disease can lead to kidney and liver failure, making early intervention and treatment critical.
Treatment for leptospirosis usually involves antibiotics and supportive care. The earlier the disease is caught, the better the prognosis. However, in severe cases, hospitalization and intensive care may be necessary. The fatality rate for untreated leptospirosis can be high, but with proper medical care, most dogs recover fully.
7. Leptospira Icterohaemorrhagiae
This strain of leptospirosis similarly poses a risk to both dogs and humans, and is transmitted through contact with contaminated water or soil. Dogs in urban settings, often exposed to rodent-infested areas, are at higher risk of infection.
Symptoms mirror those of Leptospira Canicola but may also include jaundice. Prompt treatment with antibiotics and supportive care is necessary,
However, according to Lemonade’s vet expert Dr. Stephanie Liff, “The best leptospirosis vaccine protects against four strains of the virus, whereas the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine only protects against two strains.
For the best protection against leptospirosis, it could be beneficial for a pup to receive a 5-in-1 puppy vaccine (protecting against Canine distemper virus, Adenovirus type 1, Adenovirus type 2, parainfluenza, and parvovirus) and the 4-way leptospirosis vaccine separately.”
How does the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine work?
Just like other dog vaccinations, the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine works by stimulating your puppy’s immune system to produce antibodies against these seven diseases. The vaccine contains small amounts of each of the viruses and bacteria, prompting the immune system to recognize and fight them.
Once vaccinated, your puppy’s immune system will remember these pathogens and be better prepared to combat them if exposed in the future. This protection is essential for preventing severe illness and ensuring your puppy’s overall health and wellness.
The 7-in-1 puppy vaccine contains the “core” or essential DAPP vaccine and Leptospirosis vaccine into one dose or injection. Other core vaccines typically include rabies. Non-core vaccines, given based on the risk factors of the dog—like their lifestyle—could include Bordetella (kennel cough), Lyme vaccine, and Canine influenza.
How much does the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine cost?
In 2024, the average cost of this vaccine typically ranges from $30 to $100 per shot. However, low-cost vaccination clinics or animal shelters may offer it at a reduced price.
The cost of the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Where you live
- Whether it is administered at a veterinary clinic or a low-cost vaccination clinic
- If it’s part of a vaccination package
It’s important to check with your local vet for specific pricing and any potential packages or discounts available.
How often do dogs need the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine?
There isn’t a one size fits all puppy vaccination schedule, and you should always consult your vet to come up with the best vaccination schedule for your canine companion.
The DAPP vaccine is typically administered to puppies in a series of doses:
- Initial dose at six to eight weeks old
- Follow-up doses every three to four weeks until the puppy is 16 weeks old
After the initial series, adult dogs should receive a booster shot every one to two years, depending on their risk of exposure and your veterinarian’s recommendation.
If you have a social pup who spends lots of time at the dog park or doggy daycare, it is typically recommended that they receive the vaccine annually. Whereas pups who spend the majority of their time snuggling on the couch may only need the vaccine every other year.
It’s crucial to follow your vet’s advice and keep up with the vaccination schedule to ensure your dog remains protected against these diseases.
Does pet insurance cover the cost of the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine?
Yes, if your pet insurance plan includes wellness coverage, then chances are it could help cover the costs of the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine, when they’re administered or supervised by a licensed vet. But the specifics will depend on the coverages you chose when signing up.
When you include the Puppy/Kitten Preventative Care Package on your Lemonade Pet policy, for example, your puppy will be eligible for coverage on up to six vaccines a year—which could include the initial 7-in-1 puppy vaccine and boosters.
This package could also help cover the costs associated with microchip implantation, spay/neuter procedures, heartworm, flea, and tick prevention, heartworm tests, and more.
For adult dogs, Lemonade’s Preventative Care or Preventative+ Package also includes up to three vaccinations per year, which could help cover the costs of the 7-in-1 vaccine.
What are the potential side effects of the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine?
While the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine is generally safe, some dogs may experience mild side effects. These can include:
- Mild discomfort or swelling
- Lethargy
- Mild fever
- Digestive upset
In rare cases, more severe reactions can occur, including:
- Facial swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Anaphylactic shock
As the 7-in-1 vaccine protects your pup against multiple viruses at once, Dr. Liff advises, “It is now documented that combination vaccines, like the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine, are associated with a lower vaccine reaction rate when compared to vaccinating for the diseases with individual vaccinations on the same day.”
If your pet does receive the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine, you should still monitor them closely after it has been administered. If you notice any of these symptoms indicating a severe reaction, seek immediate veterinary care.
Before we go…
Vaccinating your dog against all of the diseases the 7-in-1 puppy shot protects against can be a crucial step in protecting their health, especially if they are at higher risk of exposure. Investing in pet insurance early in your pup’s life can help provide your fur fam with extensive coverage—from core vaccines, to unforeseen accidents and illnesses as they grow up into adult dogs.
Did you know that at Lemonade Pet you can cover your pooch with dog insurance from the time they’re two months old?
Click below to get your quote started today.
FAQs
Are there specific considerations for small dog breeds when receiving the 7-in-1 vaccine?
Small dog breeds may experience more severe reactions due to their size, so it’s important to discuss any breed-specific concerns with your vet. Your vet may adjust the vaccination schedule or monitor your puppy closely for side effects.
What should I do if my puppy misses a dose of the 7-in-1 vaccine?
If your puppy misses a scheduled dose, contact your vet as soon as possible to reschedule. Maintaining your dog’s vaccination schedule is essential to keeping them safe, and boosting their immunity to disease.
Are there any pre-vaccination preparations needed for puppies?
Before vaccination, make sure that your puppy is healthy and not showing any signs of illness. It’s also a good idea to discuss any medications or health concerns with your vet prior to the appointment.
If my dog receives the 7-in-1 puppy vaccine, do I still need to get them vaccinated for Leptospirosis?
No, the 7-in-1 combines the DAPP and Leptospirosis vaccines into one injection, or “poke”. Once your dog receives the 7-in-1 vaccine, they will be adequately protected against Leptospirosis.
Can older dogs who have not been vaccinated receive the 7-in-1 vaccine?
Yes, older dogs who have not been previously vaccinated can still receive the 7-in-1 vaccine. Your vet will tailor a catch-up schedule to ensure they receive adequate protection.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
