Why Should My Pet Get Vaccinated?

What you need to know about vaccinating your pet 

Vaccinations are the safest and most cost-effective method of preventing infectious disease in our pets. Vaccinations are quick, painless, and incredibly important to your pets’ health. 

The recommended vaccines will differ for each state and your veterinarian will be able to guide you based on the infectious diseases in the area. It’s recommended that your pet be vaccinated with boosters throughout its life.  

Depending on the vaccination type, your pet may require boosters every 1 to 3 years. 

Why vaccinate? 

• Protect from fatal diseases or long-term health problems 
• Help keep other pets and the community safe through herd immunity 
• Help reduce the prevalence of the disease in the community 
• Prevent transmissible diseases between animals and humans 
• Cost-effective in that it will protect your dog or cat from contracting a preventable illness that may require costly treatment 

Vaccination Types 

Vaccinations can be divided into two types – core or non-core. 

1. Core vaccinations are those administered to all dogs or cats. 

Dog core vaccinations your vet may administer include canine parvovirus, canine adenovirus and canine distemper virus. 

Cat core vaccinations your vet may administer include feline calicivirus, feline parvovirus, and feline herpes virus. 

2. Non-Core vaccinations are administered where the pet may be at risk and will depend on the pet’s lifestyle and age, and your geographical location. 

Dog non-core vaccinations may include, but are not limited to, Bordetella bronchiectasis (kennel cough), canine parainfluenza virus (kennel cough), Leptospira and canine influenza virus. 

Cat non-core vaccinations may include, but are not limited to, feline leukaemia virus (FeLV), chlamydia Felis and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). 

Pet Vaccination Schedules 

Schedules may vary depending on your veterinary clinic protocol and vaccination type; however, they generally follow the below-recommended timelines: 

 For Puppies: 

 For Kittens:

Remembering the due date for your pets’ vaccinations is critical to lower the risk of them getting seriously ill and also keep other pets in the community safe. 

Your PetPA’s FREE wellness plan offers reminders to ensure that vaccines plus flea, tick and worming preventatives are not forgotten – simply visit our website for more information. 

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