Keeping your pet healthy and protected starts with regular vaccinations. Vaccines play a crucial role in preventing serious diseases in pets. But one common question pet owners have is: how often should your pet get vaccinated? At French Valley Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you understand your pet’s vaccination schedule so you can make informed choices about their care.
 

Why Vaccinations Are Important for Pets

Vaccines help your pet’s immune system recognize and fight off diseases before they can cause harm. Just like humans, pets are exposed to various bacteria, viruses, and parasites through other animals, outdoor environments, or even at the groomer or boarding facility.

Routine pet vaccinations in Winchester, CA, not only protect your individual pet but also contribute to community-wide disease prevention - reducing the spread of illnesses like rabies and parvovirus.
 

Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines

Veterinarians generally divide vaccines into two main categories: core and non-core. Core vaccines are essential for all pets, regardless of their age, breed, or lifestyle. For dogs, these include vaccines for rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus (hepatitis). For cats, core vaccines protect against rabies, feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia.

Non-core vaccines, on the other hand, are recommended based on your pet’s specific environment, health, and risk factors. For dogs, these may include Bordetella (kennel cough), leptospirosis, Lyme disease, and canine influenza. For cats, the most common non-core vaccine is for feline leukemia virus (FeLV).
 

Typical Vaccination Schedule

Every pet is unique, but here’s a general guideline to help you understand how often vaccinations are needed:

Puppies and Kittens

• Start vaccinations around 6-8 weeks of age.

• Receive a series of booster shots every 3-4 weeks until about 16 weeks old.

• Rabies vaccination is typically administered around 12-16 weeks.

Adult Pets

• After completing the initial series, most core vaccines are given once every 1-3 years, depending on the specific vaccine type and your veterinarian’s recommendation.

• Some non-core vaccines, like Bordetella, may be needed annually for social or boarding pets.

Regular veterinary visits help ensure your pet’s vaccination schedule stays current and effective.
 

Signs It’s Time for a Booster

Even with prior vaccines, your pet’s immunity can decrease over time. If your pet is due for an annual exam, has new exposure risks (like daycare or travel), or if you’ve adopted a new pet with an uncertain medical history, it’s important to schedule a checkup to review their vaccination status.
 

Keep Your Pet Protected Year-Round

Vaccinations are one of the simplest and most effective ways to safeguard your pet’s health. By staying on schedule, you’re giving your furry family member the best defense against preventable diseases.

At French Valley Veterinary Hospital, we make it easy to keep your pet’s vaccines up to date. Whether you’re a new pet parent or need to review your pet’s records, our caring team will tailor a plan that fits your pet’s unique needs. Visit our office in Winchester, California, or call (951) 926-8000 today.