Courtesy of the Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society  

Preventive veterinary medicine is a cornerstone of pet health. Vaccinations are a major part of that care, protecting pets from highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases. Vaccines are the safest and most cost-effective way to protect companion animals from preventable diseases. Specific schedules will vary based on the type of pet and a vet’s advice, but most professionals recommend standard protocols. Here’s a look at common core and non-core vaccinations, courtesy of the Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society. Core vaccinations provide immunity against the most dangerous and widespread diseases, while non-core vaccinations are recommended for pets who may be exposed to certain diseases due to geographical location or outdoor lifestyle. 

Cats

  • FVRCP: Kittens typically receive the feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia vaccines between six and eight weeks of age. It is repeated every three to four weeks until around 16 weeks of age 
  • FeLV: Feline leukemia virus is non-core for low-risk adult cats but is often considered a core vaccine for all cats under one year old. Kittens should receive their first FeLV vaccine between 9 and 11 weeks of age, followed by a booster 3 or 4 weeks later. Adult cats that go outdoors regularly should receive this booster annually. 
  • FIV: Feline immunodeficiency virus is spread through bite wounds. It is no longer considered core, nor available in North America. 

Dogs

  • DA2PP/DHPP/DAPP: Canine distemper/adenovirus-2 is commonly administered in a single vaccine under these acronyms. The first dose of this vaccine is typically administered between six and eight weeks of age, followed by boosters at 10-12 and 14-16 weeks of age. After that, it has been administered annually. 
  • Rabies: Around 14 weeks of age, dogs receive a rabies vaccine. The rabies vaccine will be an annual shot unless the vet administers the three-year vaccine. 
  • Leptospirosis: A bacterial disease caused by the bacterium Leptospira, it affects dogs that come into contact with infected animal urine, contaminated water, or soil. The leptospirosis vaccine protects against the bacteria and their associated symptoms. 
  • Bordetella: Also known as kennel cough, this highly contagious respiratory infection is more common in dogs that spend a lot of time in social settings. These dogs should receive the kennel cough vaccine first between 6 and 8 weeks of age, and then as an annual booster. 
  • Lyme: Vets recommend that dogs living in areas where Lyme disease is prevalent receive the Lyme vaccine at around 10 weeks of age, and annually thereafter. 
  • Canine influenza: This vaccine is recommended for dogs that attend daycare, boarding, or grooming, or spend time with other dogs.  

Various vaccinations are recommended for companion cats and dogs to keep them safe and healthy. Pet owners are urged to consult their pets’ veterinarians to ensure they are on the appropriate vaccination schedule. The Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society consists of 75 small animal hospitals and 200 practitioners in Erie and Niagara counties. Learn more at www.nfveterinarysociety.org.