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What vaccinations and heartworm prevention for new rescue dog?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | 2 years and 1 month old | 12 lbs

Newly adopted rescue, unsure if he ever had vaccinations. What vaccinations should he get and are there boosters? What type of heartworm prevention?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 10th, 2017

If there is no history of vaccinations, I would have the Distemper / Parvo / Adenovirus vaccine administered (this is a yearly vaccine), the bordetella vaccine and his Rabies vaccination. I recommend heartgard for heartworm prevention along with yearly heartworm testing. Heartgard is a monthly chewable tablet give to prevent heartworm disease. If you live in an area where fleas and ticks are prevalent, I would also suggest a flea / tick preventative such as Nexgard or Bravecto. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. I am also available via consultation if needed.

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