In this article:
- Why Pet Vaccines Matter
- How Vaccines Protect Dogs and Cats
- Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines
- Kitten and Puppy Vaccination Schedules
- Adult Pet Vaccine Boosters
- Vaccine Safety and Side Effects
- Take the First Step Toward Lifelong Protection
At Paws Veterinary Hospital in Edmonton, we believe prevention is the best medicine.
Vaccines are one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your dog or cat healthy throughout their life.
If you’ve ever wondered which vaccines your pet truly needs, or how often they should be given, our veterinary team can guide you through every step.
Why Pet Vaccines Matter
Just like in people, vaccines train your pet’s immune system to recognize and fight off disease before it can make them sick. Some of the illnesses vaccines protect against are severe, contagious, and even life-threatening.
Routine vaccination helps prevent painful infections, costly treatments, and unnecessary suffering. It also helps protect other pets and even humans in your household and community.
How Vaccines Protect Dogs and Cats
Vaccines contain inactive or modified forms or components of viruses and bacteria that stimulate your pet’s immune system. This prepares their body to recognize and fight those pathogens if they are ever exposed in the outside world.
When your pet is vaccinated, they build immunity that can last months or years, depending on the vaccine type. Regular boosters help maintain this protection throughout your pet’s life.
Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines
At Paws Veterinary Hospital, we tailor vaccination plans to your pet’s lifestyle, age, and risk factors.
Core vaccines are recommended for all pets because they protect against common or severe diseases:
- Dogs: Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus, and Rabies
- Cats: Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper), Calicivirus, Herpesvirus, and Rabies
Non-core vaccines are given based on your pet’s environment and exposure risk, such as:
- Dogs: Bordetella (Kennel Cough), Leptospirosis, Lyme Disease, and Canine Influenza
- Cats: Feline Leukemia (FeLV) for outdoor or social cats
Your veterinarian will discuss which vaccines are appropriate for your pet’s specific needs.
Kitten and Puppy Vaccination Schedules
Young pets are more vulnerable to disease because their immune systems are still developing.
That’s why timely vaccination is so important.
Typical Puppy Schedule:
- About 8 weeks of age: First vaccine set (DAPP)
- About 12 weeks of age: Second set (DAPP) plus Bordetella or other non-core
- About 16 weeks of age: Third set plus Rabies
Typical Kitten Schedule:
- About 8 weeks of age: First vaccine set (FVRCP)
- About 12 weeks of age: Second set (FVRCP)
- About 16 weeks of age: Third set plus Rabies
Your veterinarian may adjust timing based on your pet’s health, history, and lifestyle.
Adult Pet Vaccine Boosters
Once your dog or cat completes their initial vaccination series, they’ll need booster shots to maintain immunity. Most adult pets receive boosters every 1 to 3 years, depending on the vaccine and their individual needs.
Our team keeps detailed records and will remind you when your pet is due for their next visit. Staying on schedule helps ensure lasting protection.
Vaccine Safety and Side Effects
Modern veterinary vaccines are carefully tested for safety and effectiveness. Most pets experience little to no side effects.
Mild reactions can include slight lethargy or pain/swelling of the injection site, which usually resolves within a day. Serious reactions including anaphylaxis are rare and should be reported to your veterinarian right away.
At Paws Veterinary Hospital, we take every precaution to make vaccination visits gentle, stress-free, and safe.
Take the First Step Toward Lifelong Protection
Protecting your pet through vaccination is one of the most important things you can do as an owner.
At Paws Veterinary Hospital in Edmonton, we create personalized vaccination plans that fit your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle. Whether you have a new puppy, a curious outdoor cat, or a senior companion, our veterinary team is here to keep them healthy.
📞Call us today or book an appointment online to schedule your pet’s vaccination visit.