07/12/2025
I WAS JUST AT A REST STOP. WE ARE DELIVERING A PUPPY TO NASHVILLE. I WAS HORRIFIED TO SEE THESE PEOPLE PUTTING THEIR NEW PUPPY ON THE GROUND AT THE REST STOP! THIS IS SO DANGEROUS! PUPPIES HAVE LOW IMMUNITY SYSTEMS. UNTIL THEY HAVE ALL THEIR VACCINATIONS DO NOT PUT THEM DOWN ANY WHERE ANOTHER DOG COULD HAVE WALKED NO MATTER HOW SAFE YOU THINK IT IS PARVO KILLS ! THEY DO NEED TO BE SOCIALIZATED BUT YOU CARRY THEM OR HAVE A STROLLER.
Before a puppy has received all its vaccinations, you should not put them down in areas where there is a high risk of disease exposure, especially parvovirus and other dangerous illnesses. Here are the places to avoid:
❌ Places to Avoid Before Full Vaccination
1. Public Parks (especially dog parks)
2. Sidewalks and streets
3. Pet stores (floors where other animals have been)
4. Veterinary clinic lobbies (unless in a carrier or held)
5. Rest stops or gas station grassy areas
6. Dog-friendly businesses or outdoor patios
7. Yards or homes where unvaccinated or unknown dogs have been
8. Grooming salons or boarding facilities
✅ Safe Places Until Fully Vaccinated
Your home and private yard (if no sick or unvaccinated dogs have access)
Carried in your arms or in a pet sling/stroller for socialization
Puppy socialization classes (only those that require proof of vaccination for all participants)
Playdates with fully vaccinated, healthy dogs in a clean environment
Reminder:
Puppies usually get their final set of core vaccinations around 16 weeks of age. Until then, it’s best to limit exposure while still giving safe, controlled opportunities for socialization.