Vaccinations are one of the most important ways to keep your pet healthy. At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we see many pets every year whose owners are unsure about which vaccines they need or when they should receive them. Vaccines are not just a routine task; they protect your pet from serious, potentially life-threatening diseases and help prevent the spread of infections to other animals in your community. Understanding which vaccinations are essential and how their timing can change with the seasons can make a real difference in your pet’s long-term health.
Core Vaccines Every Pet Needs
Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs and cats regardless of lifestyle. For dogs, these include rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus. For cats, core vaccines protect against rabies, feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, and panleukopenia. These vaccines protect against diseases that are highly contagious, often fatal, and in some cases, transmissible to humans.
Even indoor pets are at risk. Cats can pick up viruses from brief outdoor exposure or contact with objects brought into the home. Dogs can be exposed during walks, at the park, or when visiting grooming or daycare facilities. Core vaccines create immunity that reduces the risk of infection and helps maintain a healthy pet population in the community.
Non-Core Vaccines and Seasonal Considerations
Non-core vaccines are given based on your pet’s risk factors, environment, and lifestyle. For dogs, these may include leptospirosis, bordetella, Lyme disease, and canine influenza. For cats, non-core vaccines may protect against feline leukemia virus or chlamydia.
Some vaccines are particularly relevant at certain times of the year. For example, Lyme disease is more common in warmer months when ticks are active. Canine influenza vaccines may be recommended before boarding or attending social gatherings with other dogs. Planning vaccinations seasonally ensures your pet has protection before they are most at risk.
Timing And Booster Schedules
Vaccines are not a one-time event. Puppies and kittens require a series of initial vaccines followed by boosters to build strong immunity. Adult pets need regular boosters to maintain protection. The exact timing depends on the vaccine type, your pet’s age, and their health status.
At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we create individualized vaccination schedules. For puppies and kittens, the schedule usually starts at six to eight weeks of age, with follow-ups every three to four weeks until about sixteen weeks. Adult pets often require boosters every one to three years depending on the vaccine. We also consider your pet’s lifestyle, travel plans, and local disease trends when planning their schedule.
Recognizing Signs Your Pet May Need Vaccines
If your pet hasn’t been vaccinated recently or you’re unsure of their history, it’s time for a review. Certain environments increase exposure risk, such as outdoor activities, boarding, dog parks, or multi-pet households. Young animals, senior pets, and those with chronic health conditions may need special attention to ensure their immunity is adequate.
Vaccination not only protects your pet but also protects other animals they interact with. Community immunity helps prevent outbreaks of contagious diseases and keeps pets and people safer.
Vaccination Safety And Side Effects
Most pets tolerate vaccines very well. Mild side effects can include soreness at the injection site, slight fever, or reduced appetite for a day or two. Severe reactions are rare but can occur, and our team monitors your pet closely during and after vaccinations. We discuss any risks with you and create a plan that maximizes protection while minimizing potential side effects.
Planning Year-Round Protection
Vaccinations are just one part of a year-round health plan. Pairing vaccines with regular wellness exams, parasite prevention, proper nutrition, and dental care ensures your pet stays healthy through every season. At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we review your pet’s complete health profile during each visit and update vaccinations based on current risk factors and local disease patterns.
The Bottom Line
Vaccinations are essential for preventing serious diseases and maintaining your pet’s health. They protect your pet, other animals, and the community. Seasonal planning ensures your pet is protected when risks are highest, and regular booster schedules maintain immunity throughout their life.
If you are unsure which vaccines your pet needs or when they are due, book an appointment at Renfrew Animal Hospital. Our team will help you create a vaccination plan that keeps your pet safe, healthy, and happy all year long.
