Vaccinations

The frequency of vaccines will depend on a number of factors, including the type of pet you have. For example, you should make sure that your dog completes the initial series of core vaccines administered at the puppy stage, as well as booster shots at one year of age. Following the one-year boosters, it’s recommended that the distemper, adenovirus, and parvovirus core vaccines be administered once every three years.

Additionally, some vaccination schedules are regulated by local and state law. States and municipalities govern how often rabies boosters are administered. In Pennsylvania, a three-year effective rabies booster is adequate.

Non-core vaccines should be administered whenever the risk of disease is significant. For example, the kennel cough vaccine should be administered once every year or once every six months. If your pet boards a lot or goes to doggie daycare, you may consider vaccinating for kennel cough every six months.

Vaccinations can be administered during routine wellness exams. Vaccine reactions are generally nonexistent. However, if your pet does have a reaction which may include swelling or local pain, call your veterinarian immediately. Most reactions will occur soon after the vaccination.

Although some of your pet’s vaccines are administered every three years, this does not mean you should skip your pet’s yearly wellness exam. Routine wellness exams provide the opportunity for your veterinarian to detect and prevent problems at an early stage. Visit our Preventative Care page to learn more.