Preventative veterinary medicine is a cornerstone of pet health. Vaccinations are a major part of that care that protect pets from highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases. Vaccines tend to be the safest and most cost-effective ways to protect companion animals from preventable diseases.
Specific schedules will vary based on the type of pet and the advice of a vet, but there are standard protocols recommended by most professionals. Here’s a look at common core and non-core vaccinations, courtesy of The Spruce: Pets and PetMD. Core vaccinations provide immunity against the most dangerous and widespread diseases, while non-core are recommended for pets who may be exposed to certain diseases due to geographical location or outdoor lifestyle.
Cats
FVRCP: Kittens receive the feline viral rhinotracheitis, calcivirus, and panleukopenia generally between six and eight weeks of age. It is repeated every three to four weeks until around 16 weeks of age
FeLV: Feline leukemia virus is non-core in low-risk adult cats but often is considered core for all cats less than a year old. Kittens will get the first FeLV vaccine between nine and 11 weeks of age, then a booster three or four weeks later. Adult cats who spend time outdoors should get this vaccine booster annually.
FIV: Feline immunodeficiency virus is spread through bite wounds. It is no longer considered core, nor available in North America.
Dogs
DA2PP/DHPP/DAPP: Canine distemper/adenovirus-2 is commonly given as one vaccine referred to by these acronyms. The first dose of this vaccine tends to be administered between six to eight weeks of age, then boosters again between 10 and 12 weeks, and 14 and 16 weeks of age. From then on, it is an annual vaccine.
Rabies: Around the age of 14 weeks, dogs will get a rabies virus vaccine. The rabies vaccine will be an annual shot unless the vet administers the three-year vaccine.
Leptospirosis: Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by the leptospira bacteria. It affects dogs who come in contact with infected animal urine or contaminated water or soil. The leptospirosis vaccine will protect against the bacteria and symptoms.
Bordetella: Also known as kennel cough, bordetella is a highly contagious respiratory infection. Dogs who spend a lot of time in social settings are recommended to get this vaccine, first between age six and eight weeks, and later as an annual vaccine.
Lyme: Vets recommend that dogs who live in areas where Lyme disease is prevalent receive the Lyme vaccine at around age 10 weeks, and yearly thereafter.
Canine influenza: This vaccine is recommended for dogs who go to daycare, boarding facilities, the groomer, or any places where they will spend time among other dogs.
