Puppy Socialization or Infectious Disease Prevention - Can't We Have Both??

Course overview

The first 12 weeks of a puppy's life are prime time for socialization. Failure to adequately socialize puppies during this time is arguably the most common reason for the development of major, often life- threatening behavioral concerns in adult dogs. Many serious problems can be prevented if appropriate care is given during these early, sensitive weeks of a puppy's life. One major challenge to adequate socialization is a puppy's simultaneous vulnerability to infectious diseases. As maternal antibodies wane and immune systems lag in their full response to immunization, many in the veterinary community advise against early contact with dogs and environments outside the safety of home. So how do we navigate these competing risks and promote overall behavioral and physical health? This talk will review key concepts in puppy socialization AND infectious disease prevention, providing a practical approach to safe and effective socialization practices.