Cat and Dog Vaccination Services – Safe, Tailored Pet Vaccine Solutions

Vaccinations are critical in building new puppy immunity against potentially life-threatening diseases. Puppies are born with some protection from their mothers, but this natural immunity fades within a few weeks, leaving them vulnerable to serious illnesses such as infectious canine hepatitis and parainfluenza.

Vaccines administered during the early stages of a puppy’s life are essential to stimulate their immune system and provide consistent protection against disease. Following a proper vaccination protocol ensures your puppy develops strong defences and grows into a healthy adult dog.

Core vaccines protect against highly contagious diseases like rabies, distemper, and parvovirus, conditions that are often fatal if left untreated. Non-core vaccines, such as the leptospirosis vaccine, canine influenza vaccine, and Bordetella vaccine, are selected based on your dog’s lifestyle, geographic location, and risk of exposure.

For example, the Bordetella vaccine helps prevent kennel cough, a respiratory illness common in places where dogs gather, such as dog parks, grooming salons, and boarding facilities. The leptospirosis vaccine is especially important in areas where dogs may encounter contaminated water or wildlife.

Vaccines are recommended for dogs based on factors such as age, breed, health status, and environment. Non-core vaccines are often included for puppies living in high-risk regions or those who travel frequently. Typically, vaccines are given in a series starting at six to eight weeks of age, with boosters scheduled every few weeks to avoid gaps in immunity. A detailed puppy shot schedule ensures reliable, long-term protection.

Vaccinating your puppy also helps protect the broader community. Some vaccines, like rabies, are required by law in many regions to protect both pets and people. Overall, vaccinations reduce disease outbreaks and help ensure a happy, healthy life for your dog.

A vaccination schedule ensures your puppy receives the right protection at the right time. Puppies typically begin their vaccinations at 6 to 8 weeks of age. Core vaccines like those for distemper and parvovirus are given in a series every two to four weeks until the puppy reaches 16 weeks.

Depending on your puppy's risk factors, your veterinarian may include non-core vaccines, such as those for leptospirosis. These additional vaccines provide tailored protection based on environmental and lifestyle considerations. The schedule is personalized to meet your puppy’s unique needs.

As your puppy matures into an adult dog, booster shots are needed to maintain immunity. Most vaccines require annual or triennial boosters to ensure continued effectiveness.

Most puppies tolerate vaccinations well, but mild side effects may occur. These include slight lethargy, reduced appetite, or minor swelling at the injection site. Such reactions typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours and are not a cause for concern.

Occasionally, puppies may experience more pronounced reactions to vaccines. Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or persistent swelling should prompt an immediate consultation with your veterinarian. Severe reactions, although rare, could include difficulty breathing or facial swelling.

Our veterinarians will discuss potential side effects with you before vaccinating your puppy. They may recommend monitoring your pet for discomfort or unusual behaviour. Being proactive ensures that you can address any issues promptly and effectively.

If your puppy has reacted to a previous vaccination, inform your veterinarian. Adjustments to the vaccination schedule or type of vaccine may be necessary. This individualized approach ensures your puppy remains safe while receiving the necessary protection.

Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects both animals and humans, making vaccination an essential preventive tool. The rabies vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight the virus before it can cause harm. Due to its seriousness, rabies vaccination is legally mandated in many regions, highlighting its public health importance.

Puppies usually receive their first rabies vaccine around 12 to 16 weeks of age. This vaccine is essential not just for your pet’s safety but also for public health. Vaccinating your dog reduces the risk of transmitting the disease to humans or other animals.

Booster shots are necessary to maintain immunity against rabies. Our veterinarian will advise you when to schedule these boosters. Regular vaccination ensures that your dog remains protected throughout their life.

The rabies vaccine is a cornerstone of core vaccinations and is vital for preventing the spread of this deadly disease. By vaccinating your puppy, you play a critical role in keeping your dog and community safe from rabies.

While vaccines are highly effective in protecting your dog’s health, some risks do exist. Most side effects are mild and include temporary swelling, fever, or lethargy, signs that the immune system is responding appropriately. 

Some major side effects can occur within minutes to hours of vaccination, though they are rare. These may involve allergic reactions like anaphylaxis, with symptoms such as facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or severe vomiting. In such cases, dogs may require immediate veterinary care to manage the situation safely.

Despite these risks, the benefits of vaccination significantly outweigh them. Without vaccines, dogs may face a much higher chance of contracting infectious diseases like distemper or parvovirus, serious illnesses that can lead to severe complications or even death. Vaccines remain a critical preventive tool in safeguarding your dog’s long-term well-being.

Adult dogs require booster vaccinations to maintain immunity against diseases. Over time, the effectiveness of initial vaccines can diminish, leaving your pet vulnerable. Booster shots ensure that their immune system stays prepared to fight off infections.

Core vaccines, such as those for rabies, are necessary throughout your dog’s life. Some vaccines may require annual boosters, while others, like rabies, may only need to be updated every three years. Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate schedule for your adult dog.

Certain non-core vaccines may also be recommended for adult dogs based on their environment and lifestyle. For instance, dogs frequently visiting parks or boarding facilities may need protection against kennel cough or canine influenza.

Keeping up with our vaccinations ensures your adult dog remains healthy and active. It also allows them to safely interact with other animals and people, minimizing the risk of disease transmission.

Missing a vaccination can leave your puppy unprotected and disrupt its immunity-building process. It’s important to contact your veterinarian immediately to discuss rescheduling. Depending on the type of vaccine, the schedule may need to be adjusted or restarted.

Delays in receiving a rabies vaccination could have legal implications, as this vaccine is required by law in many areas. Staying on schedule helps ensure compliance and protects your puppy from this deadly disease.

Timely communication with our veterinarian ensures that your puppy’s vaccine schedule remains effective. Adjustments can be made to bring your pet back on track without compromising their health.