This week, Dr. Manley addresses a reader's concern about traveling with her new pup.

This week's question:
Dr. Manley,

My husband and I recently adopted a miniature Dachshund puppy. We're planning a short road trip to Arkansas and would like to take her. She'll be about 10 weeks by then and would have received her second round of shots. Are there any precautions we should take or any medical items we should be sure to pack for her? Or would it be best to just postpone until she's had all her shots?

Thanks,
Angela

Dr. Manley's Reply:

Hi Angela,

As long as she is being vaccinated every 3-4 weeks with a quality vaccine and she is healthy, it is fine for her to travel. However, it is safest to avoid public areas - such as rest stops, alleys and unfenced yards - because until she is 16 weeks old, her antibody response to each dose of vaccine is short-lived.

Thanks for the question....Dr. Manley"

Dr. Cleveland Manley, Jr. is one of the wonderful veterinarians at VCA Pet Doctor in Richardson, TX. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University - College of Veterinary Medicine.