Pet Vaccinations

Dog Vaccinations

Core Dog Vaccinations

As per information from the UC Davis Veterinary Medicine website, essential vaccinations for dogs include canine parvovirus (CPV), canine distemper virus (CDV), canine adenovirus (CAV), and rabies. It’s advisable to start initial puppy vaccinations when the dog reaches 6-8 weeks of age. Boosters should be administered every 3-4 weeks, with the final booster given no earlier than 16 weeks to ensure the development of necessary antibodies. For dogs older than 16 weeks, two boosters given 3-4 weeks apart are sufficient. Annual revaccination is recommended thereafter to maintain comprehensive protection.

In most states, rabies vaccination is mandatory by law. Puppies and dogs receiving their first vaccination or with an unknown vaccination history should receive one dose at 16 weeks or older, with revaccination scheduled after one year. Subsequently, most rabies vaccines permit boosters every three years.

In certain cases, revaccination may occur as infrequently as every three years after the initial annual booster, contingent upon vaccines approved for three-year administration. Variations may exist between manufacturers hence it’s vital to consult your veterinarian about available options. Moreover, even if your pet qualifies for a three-year revaccination schedule, routine annual checkups remain imperative. Regular veterinary visits ensure your dog’s overall well-being, including examinations for conditions like osteoarthritis, skin problems, flea and tick prevention, regular deworming, and heartworm prevention (with annual testing required), among other health concerns.

Non-Core Dog Vaccinations

When considering optional vaccines for your dog, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian. They can evaluate the specific risks based on your dog’s environment, geographical location, and any plans for travel or socialization. Non-core vaccines, which may be recommended based on these factors, include:

• Canine parainfluenza virus (CPiV)
• Canine influenza virus
• Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough)
• Leptospira
• Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease)
• Canine coronavirus
• Canine adenovirus-1

Together with your veterinarian, you can tailor a vaccination plan that aligns with your dog’s individual needs and lifestyle. For comprehensive coverage, we suggest the Vanguard crLyme vaccine by Zoetis, known for its thorough protection. Administered as a simple two-dose series initially, followed by annual revaccination during your dog’s routine shots and checkups, it offers peace of mind.

For the latest canine vaccination recommendations, refer to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) website. Keeping your dog’s vaccinations up-to-date is an integral part of their overall health and well-being.

Cat Vaccinations

Core Cat Vaccinations

The essential vaccinations for cats encompass feline herpesvirus 1, feline calicivirus, feline panleukopenia virus, and rabies. For initial kitten vaccination, it’s recommended to commence boosters at 6-8 weeks of age, continuing every 3-4 weeks until reaching 16 weeks. Following this, a booster is advisable annually, with the potential to transition to a 3-year revaccination thereafter. As with dogs, it remains crucial to ensure regular veterinary check-ups for your cat, at least once per year, to evaluate the suitability of a 3-year revaccination.

Rabies vaccination is also mandated by law in most states, mirroring the requirements for dogs. Cats and kittens can receive vaccination at 12-16 weeks of age, with annual boosters thereafter. While there exist both three-year and one-year revaccination options for cats, contingent upon the vaccine type used and its suitability for your cat, it’s imperative to consider potential reactions, such as sarcomas, which can occur rarely. Certain vaccine types are less likely to elicit this reaction. Engaging in dialogue with your veterinarian regarding available options and what best suits your cat’s needs is paramount.

Non-core Cat Vaccinations

Optional vaccinations for cats encompass feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), Chlamydia felis, Bordetella bronchiseptica, and virulent FCV. Among these non-core vaccinations, FeLV is prevalent, particularly in feral cat communities. Following the initial series of two boosters administered 3-4 weeks apart, either annual or 2-year revaccination is recommended, contingent upon the chosen brand. It’s imperative to discuss available options with your veterinarian to make informed decisions.

Other optional vaccines, like FIV, are entirely risk-dependent. To assess your cat’s risk profile comprehensively, schedule a consultation to explore available options and alternatives for optimal coverage. For further guidance, refer to UC Davis’s vaccination protocols, keeping in mind that regulations may vary slightly based on location.

Ready to secure your pet’s vaccination appointment? We’re eager to assist you! Contact us to schedule your visit today.