Pet Vaccinations 101: What Your Dog or Cat Needs and When

Vaccinating your pet is one of the most important steps you can take to protect their health and prevent the spread of serious diseases. At Salt & Sea Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to guide you through the basics of pet vaccinations and when your furry companion needs them.

Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines Vaccines are typically divided into two categories:

Core Vaccines are essential for all pets due to the widespread risk of disease. These include:
‍Dogs: Rabies, Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus
‍Cats: Rabies, Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia

Non-Core Vaccines are recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle and exposure risk. These include:
‍Dogs: Bordetella (kennel cough), Leptospirosis, Lyme disease, Canine Influenza
‍Cats: Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)

Puppy and Kitten Vaccination Schedules

6-8 weeks: First round of core vaccines
Every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks: Booster shots for core vaccines
16 weeks and older: Rabies vaccination (required by law in California)

Adult Pets

- Annual wellness exams include vaccine boosters as needed
- Some vaccines, like Rabies, may be given every three years after the initial series

Staying on Schedule Matters!

Vaccines protect your pet from life-threatening illnesses and help keep the entire community safe. Delaying vaccines can leave your pet vulnerable to preventable diseases.At Salt & Sea Veterinary Hospital, we customize vaccination plans based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and risk factors. Schedule an appointment today to keep your pet on track and protected!