Vaccinations

It is critical to keep your dog or cat up-to-date on all vaccinations. Highly contagious viruses, which can be fatal or highly expensive to treat, can often be avoided by staying on top of your pet’s vaccine schedule.

Vaccinations are administered at our Hospital at the time of a routine scheduled examination.

For dogs, recommended vaccines and frequency can include:

• Canine Parvovirus, Distemper Virus, and Adenovirus-2 Vaccines (DHP, “Distemper” or “Canine Booster” vaccine)
  • For initial puppy vaccination: one vaccine every 3-4 weeks from 6-8 weeks of age, with the final booster being given no sooner than 16 weeks of age.
  • For dogs older than 16 weeks of age: two doses of vaccine given 3-4 weeks apart are recommended. After a booster at one year, revaccination is recommended every 3 years thereafter.

• Canine Rabies Virus Vaccines
  • Puppies should receive a single dose of killed rabies vaccine at 16 weeks of age.
  • Adult dogs with unknown vaccination history should also receive a single dose of killed rabies vaccine. A booster is required one year later, and thereafter, rabies vaccination should be performed every 3 years.

For cats, recommended vaccines and frequency can include:

• Feline Herpesvirus 1, Feline Calicivirus and Feline Panleukopenia Virus Vaccines (FVRCP or “Feline Booster”)
  • For initial kitten vaccination (<16 weeks): one vaccine is recommended every 3-4 weeks from 6-8 weeks of age, with the final booster being given no sooner than 16 weeks of age.
  • For cats older than 16 weeks of age, two doses of vaccine given 3-4 weeks apart are recommended. After a booster at one year, revaccination is suggested every 3 years thereafter for cats at low risk of exposure.
• Feline Rabies Virus Vaccines
  • Kittens should receive a single dose of killed or (eliminate killed or) recombinant rabies vaccine at 12-16 weeks of age.
  • Adult cats with unknown vaccination history should also receive a single dose of killed or (same) recombinant rabies vaccine. Booster vaccines are recommended for cats exposed to the outside world or when required by law.