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Is it too late for my adult rescue dog to get the distemper vaccine?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered

hello, can you help me get some information about the canine distemper virus? i read that the only way to prevent this is for a dog to get a shot when he’s still a puppy, but can it be given later? (charlie is a rescue, around 3 years old, so we don’t know if he had this shot when he was a baby). Is there any other way to prevent it, and what are the symptoms? thanks!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 18th, 2019

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Charlie. Puppies are typically vaccinated for the distemper virus. However, some are never taken to a veterinarian. So I would certainly recommend having Charlie vaccinated now. He would need an initial vaccine and then a booster in 3-4 weeks. This will ensure that he is adequately protected. I hope this information helps!

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Charlie. Puppies are typically vaccinated for the distemper virus. However, some are never taken to a veterinarian. So I would certainly recommend having Charlie vaccinated now. He would need an initial vaccine and then a booster in 3-4 weeks. This will ensure that he is adequately protected. I hope this information helps!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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