Vaccination Guidelines for Dogs and Cats
Just like humans, our pets are vulnerable to infectious diseases—some of which can even be transmitted to people. Protecting them through regular vaccinations is one of the most important steps you can take as a responsible pet owner.
Canine Vaccination Guidelines
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) separates canine vaccines into two categories:
- Core Vaccines – Recommended for all dogs regardless of lifestyle or location:
- Rabies
- Canine Distemper Virus
- Canine Adenovirus Type 2
- Canine Parvovirus Type 2
- Non-Core Vaccines – Recommended based on risk factors such as environment and lifestyle:
- Leptospirosis
- Bordetella (kennel cough)
- Lyme disease
- Canine Influenza
- Western Diamondback Rattlesnake Toxoid
Puppy Vaccine Schedule:
- Begin vaccinations at 6–8 weeks old
- Administer the DHPP combo every 3–4 weeks until 16–20 weeks of age
- Non-core vaccines are typically added during the final 1–2 appointments
- Rabies vaccine is administered at the final puppy visit (16–20 weeks)
- Booster all vaccines 1 year later, then annually or every 3 years depending on the vaccine
Older Puppies or Unvaccinated Adults:
- Begin with DHPP
- Booster in 3–4 weeks
- Annual revaccination thereafter
Feline Vaccination Guidelines
The AAHA and AAFP (American Association of Feline Practitioners) recommend the following:
- Core Vaccines for All Cats:
- Feline Herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1)
- Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
- Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV)
- Rabies
- Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) – for kittens under 1 year old
- Non-Core Vaccines (Based on Lifestyle and Risk):
- FeLV (for cats older than 1 year)
- Chlamydia felis
We tailor each vaccination plan based on your pet’s health status, age, environment, and lifestyle.