Vaccinations
At OVC Smith Lane Animal Hospital, we follow vaccination guidelines from the American Animal Hospital Association (for dogs) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (for cats). Vaccinating your pet is a simple, effective way to prevent common diseases and avoid future health issues.
Puppies and kittens need vaccines to build their immunity, while adult pets require annual boosters to maintain protection. Most vaccines can be given individually or in combination to minimize stress.
Vaccines are reviewed during every wellness exam, but boosters or additional information are always available by appointment.
Canine:
Core Vaccines: Recommended for all dogs irrespective of lifestyle, unless there is a specific medical reason not to vaccinate.
| VACCINE | Dogs <16 weeks | Dogs > 16 weeks | When to revaccinate? |
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Da2PPV combo (Distemper/Adenovirus/Parvovirus/Parainfluenza) |
At least 3 doses of a combination vaccine between 6 and 16 weeks, 2-4 weeks apart. |
2 doses of a combination vaccine, 2-4 weeks apart.
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A single dose of a combination vaccine within 1 year following the last dose in the initial vaccination series. Administer subsequent boosters at intervals of 3 years. |
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Leptospira *4-serovar, killed vaccine
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Two doses, 2-4 weeks apart, starting at 12 weeks of age. | Two doses, 2-4 weeks apart, regardless of dog’s age. |
A single dose within 1 year following the last dose in the initial vaccination series. Administer subsequent boosters annually. |
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Rabies *Required by law |
1 dose, starting at 12 weeks of age | 1 dose, regardless of age |
A single dose within 1 year of initial vaccine. Then subsequently booster every 3 years. |
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*as per AAHA vaccine guidelines: https://www.aaha.org/resources/2022-aaha-canine-vaccination-guidelines/recommendations-for-core-and-noncore-canine-vaccines/ |
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Non-Core Vaccines: Recommended for some dogs based on lifestyle, geographic location, and risk of exposure.
| VACCINE | Dogs <16 weeks | Dogs > 16 weeks | When to revaccinate? |
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Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme) |
Two doses, 2-4 weeks apart. | Two doses, 2-4 weeks apart, regardless of dog’s age. |
A single dose within 1 year following the last dose in the initial vaccination series. Administer subsequent boosters annually.
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Bordetella bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough) |
Oral: Administer a single dose into the buccal pouch at 8 weeks or older. | Oral: Administer a single dose into the buccal pouch, regardless of age. |
Administer subsequent boosters annually.
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Feline:
Core: Recommended for all cats, regardless of lifestyle. (Unless medically recommended otherwise)
| Vaccine | Cats < 16 weeks | Cats >16 weeks | When to revaccinate? |
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FVRCP combo (Feline viral rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia) |
First dose at 6 weeks of age or older. To be given every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks of age. | 2 doses given 3-4 weeks apart, regardless of cats age. |
A single dose within 1 year following the last dose in the initial vaccination series. Administer subsequent boosters at intervals of 3 years. |
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Rabies *required by law |
First dose at 12 weeks of age. | One dose given regardless of age. |
A single dose within 1 year following the initial dose. Administer subsequent boosters every 1 year. *If appropriate, a 3-year vaccine is available for use in cats. |
Non-Core: Selected for patients based on lifestyle and risk factors.
| Vaccine | Cats < 16 weeks | Cats > 16 weeks |
When to revaccinate?
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Feline Leukemia (FelV) |
Administer an initial dose between 8-12 weeks of age, with a second dose administered 3-4 weeks later. | 2 doses given 3-4 weeks apart, regardless of cats age. |
A single dose within 1 year following the last dose in the initial vaccination series. Administer subsequent boosters annually. |
Overdue Vaccinations
During your pet’s wellness exam, your veterinarian will review their vaccination history and determine if any boosters are needed, following the guidelines set by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). In cases where a pet’s immune status or vaccination history is unknown, the benefits of vaccinating typically outweigh the risks. As a general rule: when in doubt, vaccinate.
Vaccine Titres
A vaccine titre is a blood test that checks if your pet is still protected from certain diseases after vaccination. It helps your vet decide if your pet really needs a booster or if they’re already immune. This can help avoid unnecessary shots, especially for pets with health concerns or unknown vaccine histories. If you’re interested in vaccine titre testing to assess your pet’s immunity, our team can provide information during your appointment. Any associated fees will be discussed at that time.
Vaccine Reactions
If your pet has experienced any previous vaccine reactions, please inform your veterinarian at the start of the appointment, or let our reception team know when booking. This information allows us to create a safe and effective vaccination plan tailored to your pet’s needs.
