Understanding Pet Vaccinations: What Your Pet Needs and When

At Shallowford Animal Hospital, we know that pet vaccinations are one of the most important ways to protect your furry family members from serious illnesses. Every pet is unique, and knowing which vaccines your dog or cat needs—and when—helps us keep them healthy and happy for years to come. If you’re unsure about your pet’s vaccination schedule, we encourage you to call us at (336) 945-4412 to schedule an appointment with our team.

Why Pet Vaccinations Are Essential

Vaccines protect your pets from a variety of potentially dangerous diseases, some of which can even affect humans. For dogs, vaccines can prevent illnesses like parvovirus, distemper, and rabies, while cats benefit from protection against feline leukemia, panleukopenia, and rabies. By keeping up with recommended vaccines, we help your pets live longer, healthier lives.

Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines

Not all vaccines are required for every pet. Core vaccines are essential for all dogs and cats, protecting them from widespread and dangerous diseases. Non-core vaccines may be recommended depending on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and environment. During your visit, we create a personalized vaccination plan tailored to your pet’s needs.

Puppy and Kitten Vaccination Timeline

For puppies and kittens, vaccinations start early in life and require a series of boosters. Puppies typically begin vaccines at 6–8 weeks of age, with boosters every few weeks until around 16 weeks. Kittens follow a similar schedule. These early vaccines lay the foundation for long-term immunity, and we carefully track each appointment to ensure your young pet is fully protected.

Adult Pet Vaccinations and Wellness Exams

Even after the puppy and kitten stages, adult pets need ongoing vaccinations to maintain protection. We recommend annual wellness exams to update vaccines and check overall health. During these visits, we review your pet’s vaccination history and make recommendations based on their current lifestyle, travel, or exposure risk.

Vaccination Side Effects: What to Expect

Most pets experience only mild side effects, like a little soreness at the injection site or a brief period of fatigue. Serious reactions are rare, but we advise monitoring your pet closely and contacting us if anything seems unusual. Our team is always here to answer questions and provide guidance to keep your pets safe and comfortable.

Why Choose Shallowford Animal Hospital

At Shallowford Animal Hospital, we are committed to providing compassionate, personalized care for every pet. Our experienced veterinary team develops vaccination plans specific to your pet’s needs and keeps track of their schedule so you never miss an important shot. With state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on preventive care, we strive to keep your pets healthy for life. Call us today at (336) 945-4412 to schedule your pet’s vaccination appointment and give them the protection they deserve.

Keeping Your Pets Healthy and Protected

Staying current with pet vaccinations is one of the easiest ways to safeguard your pets’ health. At Shallowford Animal Hospital, we are here to guide you through every step, from puppy and kitten vaccines to adult boosters and annual wellness exams. Don’t wait—call us at (336) 945-4412 to schedule your appointment and ensure your pets are protected today.