What are Vaccines and Which Ones Should I Give to My Pet?

Just like us, your pet has an immune system which is made up of many organs and cells in the body that defends against infection, disease and foreign substances. A vaccine is a preparation that is administered to your pet to improve his or her immune system in order to fight off certain diseases.   A vaccine typically contains a small amount of an agent that stimulates your pet’s immune system to recognize the agent as foreign, destroy it, and “remember” it, so that your pet will not contract that disease in the future.

There are many diseases that can be easily prevented by administering vaccines.  Making sure your pet visits their veterinarian every year for physical examinations and required vaccination administration are an extremely important part of keeping your pet strong and healthy.

Vaccinations are classified as core vaccinations meaning required, and non core vaccinations, or optional.  Non core vaccinations should be administered based upon your veterinarian’s recommendations according to the individual pets risk and lifestyle.

The following is a guideline as to which vaccines your pet should be receiving as a puppy or kitten and then into their adult lives.

Feline (Cat) Vaccinations

Core Vaccines

1) FVRCP (Herpesvirus-1, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia Virus)

• Begin vaccination at 6-8 weeks of age
• Booster every 2-4 weeks until 14-16 weeks of age
• Revaccinate in 1 year, then every 1 to 3 years according to your veterinarian’s recommendations based upon risk and lifestyle

Non-Core Vaccines

1) Feline Leukemia

• Vaccinate at 8-10 weeks and booster in 3-4 weeks
• Revaccinate annually if at risk
• Considered a core vaccine for all kittens and then “at risk” after 1 year

2) Chlamydophilia

• Not used- consider for “at risk” animals

3) Feline Infectious Peritonitis

• Not used- consider for “at risk” animals

4) Bordatella

• Not used- consider for “at risk” animals

5) Feline Immunodeficiency Virus

• Not used- consider for “at risk” animals

Canine (Dog) Vaccinations

Core Vaccines

1) DA2P (Distemper Virus, Adenovirus, Parvovirus)

• Begin Vaccinations at 6-8 weeks of age
• Booster every 2-4 weeks until 14-16 weeks of age
• Revaccinate in 1 year, then every 1 to 3 years according to your veterinarian’s recommendations based upon risk and lifestyle

2) Rabies

• Vaccinate at 12-16 weeks of age
• Revaccinate in 1 year, then every 1 to 3 years according your to veterinarian’s recommendations based upon risk and lifestyle

Non-Core Vaccines

1)      Bordatella/ Parainfluenza

• Begin vaccination at 6-8 weeks of age
• Booster 3 weeks later
• Booster every 6-12 months as needed depending upon risk

2) Leptospirosis

• Begin vaccination at 12 weeks of age
• Booster 3 weeks later
• Booster every 6 to 12 months depending upon the risk

3) Lyme

• Begin vaccination at 12 weeks of age
• Booster 3 weeks later
• Revaccinate yearly

4) Canine Influenza Virus

• Begin vaccination at 6-8 weeks of age
• Booster 3 weeks later
• Booster every 12 months as needed depending upon risk

These are a general guideline for vaccination protocols.  The vaccinations your pet should receive, as well as the frequency should be in light of each individual veterinarian’s doctor/patient/client relationship, and individual risk assessment. Talk to your veterinarian to find out what’s right for your pet.  Vaccinations are critical in the prevention and elimination of disease.  Veterinary vaccinations are safe and effective, and the benefits far outweigh the risks.

Posted in: Your Pet with Dr. Birken