Why vaccinations matter
Vaccinations help your pet’s immune system fight off infectious diseases. Even indoor pets can be exposed unexpectedly, for example at a vet clinic, a boarding kennel or cattery, or an unplanned meeting outside. Dogs who go to off-lead parks definitely need to be vaccinated.
Every vaccination appointment includes a health check, so we can make sure your pet is well enough to be vaccinated.
Vaccinations for dogs
We recommend vaccinating dogs against distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and kennel cough.
- C3 protects against distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus.
- C5 adds protection against kennel cough.
Puppies: C3 at 6 to 8 weeks, then C5 at 10 to 12 weeks. Some puppies need a further C3 at 14 to 16 weeks.
Adult dogs: we use a C3 vaccine that lasts three years, so your dog needs a C5 in year one, kennel cough only in years two and three, then a C5 again in year four.
Vaccinations for cats
Kittens can be vaccinated from 8 weeks of age. We recommend protecting cats against feline enteritis, cat flu (herpesvirus and calicivirus) and chlamydia. [Confirm F3 or F4]
If your cat goes outdoors or might get into fights, ask us about the feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) vaccine. FIV can’t spread to people.
If your pet’s vaccinations are overdue
Let us know, and bring any vaccination records you have. Most adult dogs need a single booster to be protected again. Cats usually need two vaccinations a month apart.
After vaccination
Your pet may be a little tired or sore where they had the injection. This is normal and should pass in a day or so. Serious reactions are rare, but call us straight away if you notice swelling, vomiting or ongoing lethargy.