Vaccinations are a fundamental part of preventive veterinary care. They don’t just protect your pets—they help protect your family and community from dangerous diseases, some of which can spread from animals to humans.
Whether you’re adopting a new puppy, rescuing a kitten, or caring for a senior pet, understanding vaccinations means you’re making informed choices that support your pet’s health, behavior, and overall quality of life.
What Are Pet Vaccinations?
Vaccines are biological preparations injected under your pet’s skin. These contain weakened or inactive parts of a particular organism (antigens) that stimulate your pet’s immune system. Once vaccinated, their body recognizes and fights the real infection if it ever shows up again.
Think of it like training your pet’s immune system—it learns how to defeat viruses before they pose a threat.
Core Vaccines for Dogs
Core vaccines are those that every dog should receive, no matter their environment or routine. These diseases are highly infectious, widespread, and often deadly.
DHPP
Combines 4 powerful protections:
Distemper, Hepatitis (Adenovirus), Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza.Example: Parvovirus can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration, and spreads quickly among unvaccinated dogs.
Frequency: Starts as a puppy; boosters are given throughout adulthood.
Rabies Vaccine
Rabies affects the brain and spinal cord and is 100% fatal once symptoms appear.
Transmitted through bites; mandatory by law in most states.
Learn more in our Puppy Care and Vaccination Schedule
Core Vaccines for Cats
Core vaccines for cats target diseases that are easy to catch, hard to treat, and can lead to lifelong complications.
FVRCP
Covers:
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (a severe upper respiratory disease)
Calicivirus (oral ulcers, pneumonia)
Panleukopenia (often called feline distemper)
These viruses can be airborne or transmitted by shared bowls or bedding.
Rabies Vaccine
Crucial for both indoor and outdoor cats, especially with bats or stray animals nearby.
Visit our Cat Wellness Services
Non-Core Vaccines: Tailored Protection
These are optional but highly recommended based on lifestyle, exposure, and environment. Your vet will assess your pet’s risk and recommend accordingly.
Dogs:
Bordetella: Commonly known as kennel cough; crucial for dogs that go to groomers, daycare, or boarding.
Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection that can affect kidneys and liver, and spread to humans.
Lyme Disease: Spread by ticks; especially in wooded areas.
Cats:
FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus): A leading cause of death in young cats; affects immunity and organ function.
Not sure what your pet needs? Schedule a Pre-Adoption Consultation to decide with our vet.
Vaccination Schedule: Timing Is Everything
Puppies & Kittens
First shots: Start between 6–8 weeks of age.
Boosters: Every 3–4 weeks until 16–20 weeks.
Rabies: Usually given at 12–16 weeks.
Adult Pets
Booster frequency varies:
Some annually
Others every 3 years, depending on vaccine type and vet’s advice.
Get a personalized Vaccination Plan & Health Check-up for your pet.
Why Regular Vaccinations Matter
Vaccines aren’t just for young animals. Skipping boosters leaves your pet exposed.
Benefits:
Stops disease outbreaks in your community
Keeps your pet healthy & energetic
Ensures compliance for boarding, grooming, or travel
Prevents zoonotic disease (rabies, leptospirosis, etc.)
Visiting for vaccines? Enjoy a full wellness day with our Pet Grooming Services.
Is Your Pet Overdue for Vaccination?
Life gets busy—it’s okay. Even if your pet has missed their schedule, it’s never too late to catch up. Our team will assess, restart the protocol if needed, and make sure they’re back on track safely.
Check out our Vetcare Pharmacy for vaccine after-care, treats, and immune support products.
Final Thoughts: Vaccines = Love + Prevention
At Vetcare Pet Hospital, we believe a vaccinated pet is a protected pet. Prevention saves lives, money, and stress. Vaccines are safe, affordable, and crucial to ensuring your furry friend stays with you for years to come.
Need expert guidance or want to book your pet’s vaccination visit? Book an Appointment or Call Us Today.