Pet Vaccination at Best Friends Veterinary Center in Grafton, WI

When Should You Vaccinate Your Pet?

Puppy and kitten vaccinations usually begin around 6 to 8 weeks of age. Initial vaccinations are followed by booster shots to ensure lasting protection. Most pets will need booster shots periodically throughout their lives to maintain immunity. The timing and frequency of these vaccinations depend on your pet’s age, health status, and lifestyle.

Core and Non-Core Vaccinations

Vaccines are categorized into core and non-core types based on their necessity and risk factors.

Core Vaccinations:

Core vaccines are essential for all pets due to their widespread risk of exposure and the potential severity of the diseases they prevent:

• Canine Core Vaccines: Includes vaccines for distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus (DHPP), leptospirosis, and rabies.
• Feline Core Vaccines: Includes vaccines for feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, feline distemper, and rabies.

Non-Core Vaccinations:

Non-core vaccines are recommended based on specific risk factors, such as lifestyle or geographic location:

• Canine Non-Core Vaccines: Includes Bordetella (kennel cough), Lyme disease, and heartworm prevention.
• Feline Non-Core Vaccines: Includes feline leukemia.

Benefits of Vaccinations

Pet vaccinations provide several benefits:

• Prevention of Serious Diseases: Vaccines protect against severe and potentially fatal illnesses.
• Reduced Risk of Disease Spread: Vaccinated pets are less likely to contract and transmit infectious diseases.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Preventive care helps your pet remain healthy and active throughout their life.

Book appointment today to ensure your pet receives essential vaccinations.

Vaccination Schedule and Administration

The vaccination schedule varies for puppies, kittens, and adult pets. Here is a general outline:

• Puppies and Kittens: Start vaccinations at 6 to 8 weeks of age, with follow-up boosters every 3 to 4 weeks until they reach 15 to 18 weeks of age.
• Adult Pets: Regular boosters are needed based on the vaccine type, typically every 1 to 3 years.

Addressing Concerns

While most pets experience no issues with vaccinations, some may have mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site, reduced appetite, or mild fever. These usually resolve within a few days. In rare cases, pets may have more severe reactions, such as allergic responses. Contact our clinic immediately if you notice any unusual symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or swelling.

Rabies Vaccination Regulations

Rabies vaccination requirements vary by state and country. In Wisconsin, rabies vaccinations are mandatory for pets. It’s important to comply with these regulations to ensure the safety and health of your pet and community.