Vaccinations for Dogs and Cats

We’ll keep your pet safe.

Sometimes having a pet is like having a child—it can seem like a never-ending job to keep them healthy and happy. Vaccinations are a relatively inexpensive but essential way to prevent many illnesses and diseases that can be life-threatening and may even be zoonotic, meaning they can be passed to humans.

Lifestyle Vaccines

Vaccinating pets when they’re puppies and kittens is crucial because their developing immune systems need protection to stay healthy. Even indoor pets should be vaccinated, as they can still be exposed to diseases.

While any medical treatment carries some risk, the benefits of vaccinations far outweigh potential side effects. Adverse reactions are rare, usually mild, and short-lived. At Juanita Hills Animal Hospital, we tailor vaccinations to your pet’s lifestyle, not just what’s commercially available.

Core vs. Non-Core

Which vaccines should your pet have? “Core” vaccines are those recommended—and possibly mandated by law—for most pets. Core vaccines include:
  • Rabies (dogs and cats)
  • Distemper, Hepatitis, Adenovirus 2, Parvo, Lepto, and Parainfluenza (dogs)
  • Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (cats)
Another non-core, but highly suggested vaccine for cats is FeLV to protect against feline leukemia.

For dogs, Bordetella and Canine Influenza shots are recommended if they frequent dog parks, boarding kennels, or any place where they’re socializing with other canines.

Veterinarian Advice

You might also talk to your veterinarian about a leptospirosis vaccine if your dog is like so many in our area that go on hikes into rural areas or spend a lot of time outdoors where there’s wildlife.

We can advise you on which vaccinations are required or recommended for your pet based on age, health, and lifestyle. For questions or to schedule an appointment, request a visit online, or call us at 425-470-4410.