Vaccinations

Cannington Veterinary Hospital - German Shepherd puppy

Vaccinations protect your pet against serious illness and potentially fatal diseases. Whilst puppies and kittens are particularly susceptible to viruses and diseases it is important that animals of all ages are vaccinated and kept up to date with their annual booster vaccine.

Puppies & Kittens

Puppies and kittens require early intervention to build their immunity and protect them against common viral and contagious diseases. They require a course of vaccinations over several weeks and annually thereafter. 

Puppies will initially require three rounds of vaccines at 6-8 weeks, 10-12 weeks, and 16 weeks old, against:

  • Canine Parvovirus
  • Distemper
  • Hepatitis
  • Canine cough (kennel cough)

Kittens will initially require three rounds of vaccines at 6-8 weeks, 10-12 weeks, 14-16 weeks old, against:

  • Feline Herpes Virus
  • Feline Calicivirus
  • Feline Panleukopenia
  • Feline Rhinotracheitis (Cat flu)

It is important to remember that your puppy or kitten is not fully immune until 1 week after their final vaccination. Try to avoid exposing your pet to public areas until this point and eliminate their contact with unknown, or unvaccinated dogs.

Adult Dogs & Cats

Annual booster vaccinations are required for dogs and cats to maintain their immunity against common diseases and viruses.

There are two categories of vaccines available, core and non-core. Non-core vaccines may be recommended by your vet based on your region or living circumstances.

Rabbits

Pet rabbits under 10 weeks of age will require a course of vaccinations to protect them against Calicivirus. Ongoing boosters are then required every 6 months to maintain protection against the virus.

Ferrets

Ferrets require a course of vaccinations at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age, to protect them against Distemper. They will then require a booster every 12 months after this.