VACCINE FAQs

Detailed information about the vaccines we offer is located on the dog and cat info tabs, under vaccinations.

Why does my pet need an examination before getting vaccines? Is that really necessary?
Unlike people, our animal family members cannot tell us that they are not feeling well today and would rather not make things worse by getting their vaccines. It becomes necessary for the doctor to perform an examination of your pet in order to make sure your pet is healthy enough to be vaccinated. Your pet may appear healthy, but the doctor is performing a thorough evaluation to look for any physical signs that could indicate a problem. Some examples of what the doctor is looking for include an elevated temperature, pale gums, swollen lymph nodes, increased lung sounds, and abdominal masses. If your pet’s health is compromised, the doctor will postpone administering any vaccines; vaccinations will further compromise your pet’s immune system.

But my pet was just at the clinic a few weeks ago? Do I have to pay for another exam with the vaccines?
Our canine and feline companions age much faster than we do, and major changes to their health status can occur even in just a few weeks time. Since our pets cannot tell us if they are having problems, it is our responsibility to assess their health prior to administering any vaccines. As an example, we had a patient who was otherwise healthy on physical exam come to the clinic to have a lacerated paw repaired. Five days later this dog came back for a bandage change. The doctor noted that all of the dog’s lymph nodes were enlarged, indicating a type of cancer called lymphoma. We see many cases where the value of a physical examination is priceless. Even if your pet was recently examined, we are careful to check everything again and make sure the vaccination is really in your pet’s best interest.

My pet is going to a boarding kennel. What vaccines are required?
Most kennels require a dog to be current on three vaccines: rabies, bordetella, and a distemper combination. Cats are often required to be up to date on their rabies and FVRCP. You should ALWAYS check with your dog or cat’s boarding facility to find out their specific vaccine requirements, as there are sometimes additional vaccines that are necessary, such as leptospirosis for dogs or feline leukemia virus for cats.

Just as important as what vaccines your pet needs is when the vaccinations are given. After receiving a vaccination, your pet’s immune system needs time to develop the protective antibodies that will fight disease. While the immune system is undertaking this task, it is compromised. This can actually make your pet more susceptible to other illnesses. Vaccinating your pet the day before you leave town is not an ideal situation. Please remember to plan ahead so that your pets have around two weeks between their last vaccination and the start of their vacation at the boarding facility.

My kennel requires my dog to be vaccinated for bordetella. He’s never had that vaccine before. What do I need to do?
Some vaccines, such as bordetella or leptospirosis, are elective but may be required by your kennel. If your dog has never had one of these vaccines before, an initial series of two injections is required. The two injections need to be given a minimum of 2-3 weeks apart. When you then consider that you should give your dog two weeks after the second injection to recover before entering the kennel, you can see how important it is for you to plan ahead in scheduling your pet’s vaccination appointments.