How Much Do Puppy Shots Cost at PetSmart. If you are a new puppy owner, you might be wondering how much it will cost to vaccinate your furry friend at PetSmart. Vaccinating your puppy is an important way to protect them from some serious and potentially fatal diseases, such as rabies, parvovirus, and distemper. However, the cost of puppy shots can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of vaccine, the number of doses, and the location of the clinic. In this article, we will explore the average cost of puppy shots at PetSmart in 2023 and some tips on how to save money and reduce the risk of adverse reactions.
PetSmart is a popular pet store chain that offers a variety of services for pet owners, including grooming, training, boarding, and veterinary care. PetSmart partners with different veterinary providers to offer low-cost vaccination clinics for dogs and cats at select locations. Some of these providers are Banfield Pet Hospital, ShotVet, and independently owned and operated vet clinics inside PetSmart stores. You can find out if your local PetSmart has a vaccination clinic by visiting their website or calling their customer service.
Cost Of Puppy Shots at PetSmart
The cost of puppy shots at PetSmart depends on which provider you choose and which vaccines your puppy needs. Generally, there are three categories of vaccines for dogs: rabies, core, and non-core. Rabies vaccine is the only one required by law in most states and protects your puppy from a deadly virus that can also infect humans. Core vaccines include distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and parainfluenza, which are common and highly contagious diseases that can cause severe illness or death in puppies. Non-core vaccines are optional and depend on your puppy’s lifestyle and risk factors. Some examples are bordetella (kennel cough), leptospirosis, Lyme disease, and canine influenza.
According to the current recommendations from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), puppies should receive their first round of core vaccines at 6 to 8 weeks of age, followed by two or three more boosters every 3 to 4 weeks until they are 16 to 20 weeks old. Rabies vaccine should be given at 12 to 16 weeks of age and then repeated every 1 to 3 years depending on the state law and the type of vaccine. Non-core vaccines should be discussed with your veterinarian and given based on your puppy’s individual needs.
The table below shows the approximate cost of each vaccine at PetSmart in 2023 based on the information available on their website and their partner’s websites. Note that these prices may vary by location and do not include additional fees such as exam fees, biohazard fees, or taxes.
| Vaccine | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rabies (1 year) | $26 |
| Rabies (3 years) | $42 |
| DA2PP (distemper/parvo/adenovirus/parainfluenza) | $39 |
| Bordetella | $39 |
| Leptospirosis | $39 |
| Lyme | $39 |
| Influenza (H3N8) | $44 |
As you can see, vaccinating your puppy at PetSmart can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 depending on how many shots they need and which provider you choose. However, there are some ways to save money and reduce the risk of adverse reactions from over-vaccination. Here are some tips:
- Look for coupons or discounts on PetSmart’s website or social media pages. Sometimes they offer special deals or promotions for vaccination services.
- Compare prices and reviews of different providers before choosing one. You may find a better deal or a more reputable clinic elsewhere.
- Ask your veterinarian about titer testing. This is a blood test that measures the level of antibodies in your puppy’s system and determines if they need a booster shot or not. This can help you avoid unnecessary vaccinations and save money in the long run.
- Follow the AAHA guidelines for vaccination frequency and avoid annual shots unless recommended by your veterinarian. Most core vaccines provide immunity for several years after the initial series.
- Monitor your puppy for any signs of adverse reactions after vaccination. These can include swelling, itching, pain, fever, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or anaphylaxis. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
- Report any adverse reactions to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). This is a national database that collects information about vaccine safety and helps identify potential problems or risks.
Vaccinating your puppy is a responsible and caring thing to do as a pet owner. It can protect them from some serious and potentially fatal diseases and keep them healthy and happy for years to come. However, it can also be expensive and risky if not done properly. By following these tips, you can make an informed decision about how much to spend on puppy shots at PetSmart and how to reduce the risk of adverse reactions. Remember to consult your veterinarian for the best advice and care for your puppy.
How do I find out if my local PetSmart has a vaccination clinic?
You can visit PetSmart’s website and enter your zip code or city to find the nearest store that offers vaccination services. You can also call their customer service at 1-888-839-9638 and ask them for more information.
How do I book an appointment for my puppy’s shots?
You can book an appointment online through PetSmart’s website or through their partner’s website, depending on which provider you choose. You can also walk in during the clinic hours, but you may have to wait longer or pay an extra fee.
What do I need to bring with me when I take my puppy to PetSmart for vaccination?
You need to bring your puppy’s medical records, such as previous vaccination certificates, health certificates, or test results. You also need to bring a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or a passport. You may also need to bring a leash, a collar, and a muzzle for your puppy, depending on the clinic’s policy.
How can I pay for my puppy’s shots at PetSmart?
You can pay with cash, credit card, debit card, or gift card at PetSmart. Some providers may also accept checks or online payments. You will receive a receipt and a vaccination certificate after the payment.
What should I do after my puppy gets vaccinated?
You should monitor your puppy for any signs of adverse reactions, such as swelling, itching, pain, fever, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or anaphylaxis. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. You should also report any adverse reactions to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). You should also follow the vaccination schedule recommended by your veterinarian and keep your puppy’s records updated.
Conclusion
In conclusion, vaccinating your puppy at PetSmart can be a convenient and affordable option for many pet owners. However, you should be aware of the different factors that affect the cost of puppy shots, such as the type of vaccine, the number of doses, and the location of the clinic. You should also follow some tips to save money and reduce the risk of adverse reactions from over-vaccination, such as looking for coupons or discounts, comparing prices and reviews, asking for titer testing, following the AAHA guidelines, monitoring your puppy for any signs of trouble, and reporting any adverse reactions to VAERS. By doing so, you can ensure that your puppy gets the best care possible and stays healthy and happy for years to come.