Puppy Vaccination Schedule
The first thing to know is that there is not just one puppy vaccination schedule for all dogs. Factors such as which part of the country you live in and your dog’s individual risk factors will come into play. Some dogs do not need every vaccine. This decision is between you and your veterinarian. Always discuss puppy vaccinations at your regularly scheduled appointments.
That said, below is a generally accepted guideline of the puppy vaccination schedule for the first year.
| Puppy's Age | Recommended Vaccinations | Optional Vaccinations |
|---|---|---|
| 6—8 weeks | Distemper, PARA INFLUENZA | Bordetella |
| 10—12 weeks | DHPP (vaccines for distemper, adenovirus [hepatitis], parainfluenza, parvovirus) | Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme disease |
| 12—24 weeks | Rabies (as required by law) | |
| 14—16 weeks | DHPP | Coronavirus, Lyme disease, Leptospirosis |
| 12—16 months | Rabies, DHPP | Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme disease |
| 1—2 Years | DHPP | Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme disease |
| 1—3 Years | Rabies (as required by law) |
Vaccinations for Adult Dogs: Boosters and Titers
There is a difference of opinion about having your adult dog vaccinated every year. Some vets believe too many vaccinations in adult dogs pose health risks. But others disagree, saying that yearly vaccinations will prevent dangerous diseases such as distemper. Talk with your vet to determine what kind of vaccination protocol works for you and your dog.
Many dog owners opt for titer tests before they administer annual vaccinations. Titer tests measure a dog’s immunity levels, and this can determine which, if any, vaccinations are necessary. One key exception to this is rabies: a titer test is not an option when it comes to the rabies vaccine. This vaccination is required by law across the United States. Your vet can tell you the schedule for your particular state.
What to Know About Cat Vaccinations
Kittens should start getting vaccinations when they are 6 to 8 weeks old until they are about 16 weeks old. Then they must be boostered a year later. The shots come in a series every 3 to 4 weeks. Adult cats need shots less often, usually every year or every 3 years, depending on how long a vaccine is designed to last.
Vaccines Recommended for all cats:
Rabies
Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper)
Feline calicivirus
Feline viral rhinotracheitis
The feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia vaccinations often come in a combination shot (FVRCP), which is sometimes called the “distemper shot.” our cat may need extra shots depending on how much time she spends outside, how often she’s around other cats, and the diseases that are common in your area. They include:
Chlamydia: A vaccine for this bacteria is often part of the FVRCP shot.
Feline leukemia: This serious viral infection spreads through many bodily fluids like saliva, feces, urine, and milk. The vaccine is recommended for cats who spend any time outside. Feline leukemia cannot be cured, so prevention is a priority.
Bordetella: Cats who go to the groomer or stay at a kennel should get vaccinated for this infection that spreads quickly in spaces where there are lots of animals. The vaccine won’t prevent the disease, but it will keep your kitty from getting very sick from it.
If your cat stays inside all of the time, you might think he/she is automatically protected from these kinds of diseases. But he/she could still catch airborne germs that might come in through a window or door. And even the most docile kitties sometimes make a run for it. If your cat gets outside, you want to make sure he/she is protected. Indoor cats may also pick up bacteria and viruses when they stay at a kennel and if you bring a new cat home.