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Puppy's first road trip: Parvo concerns, shots, and hotel safety?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Saint Bernard | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 22 days old | 20 lbs

I'm driving from MI to ND with a new puppy on January 3rd (he'll be 10 weeks). He'll have his first puppy shots on Dec 19th (at 8 weeks). I am worried about parvo risks while road tripping (rest stops & pet friendly hotels). I have two questions: 1) Should he have his 2nd, 10-week set of puppy shots JUST before leaving for the trip, or wait until after? I read shots can suppress immune response for a few days. 2) Can I stay at a pet friendly hotel, or sleep in cold car/not risk parvo?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 14th, 2016

1)He can have his puppy shots before the trip. The vaccinations actually activate the immune system (this is what vaccinations do). 2)You can stay at a pet friendly hotel, however I would leaved him in a crate so he cannot run around and sniff possible "left-behinds" from other dogs. It would bot be advisable to let him sleep out in the cold at this age. While you are on the trip do not let other people pet him or touch him. Do not let him get in contact with dogs other than your own vaccinated dogs. He should be alright then.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I would recommend giving his shots before you travel and again at 14weeks. Taking your own crate for him and exercising him only on concrete/asphalt which is clean to eye will minimise risk of infection

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