Vaccination Schedule for Dogs and Cats – A Quick Reference for Lakewood Pet Owners

Staying up to date with pet vaccinations is one of the most effective ways to protect your dog or cat from serious disease. At Lakewood Pet Vet in Lakewood, CA, our clinic emphasizes the importance of timely vaccines to ensure your pet remains healthy and protected. A well-planned vaccination schedule is key to building strong immunity and avoiding preventable illnesses. This guide offers a quick overview for Lakewood pet owners on what to expect and when to vaccinate.

Understanding Core and Non-Core Vaccines

Vaccines are divided into two main categories: core and non-core. Core vaccines are essential for all pets due to the severity and spread of the diseases they prevent, such as rabies and distemper. Non-core vaccines are given based on a pet’s lifestyle and risk of exposure, like the Bordetella vaccine for pets that visit groomers or boarding facilities. Our veterinarian will help determine which vaccines are appropriate for your pet.

Vaccination Schedule for Puppies and Dogs

Puppies should start their core vaccines at six to eight weeks old, with boosters every three to four weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. Core vaccines for dogs include distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and rabies. After the initial puppy series, most core vaccines are boosted at one year, then every one to three years. Non-core vaccines, like Bordetella and Lyme disease, may be recommended annually based on risk.

Vaccination Schedule for Kittens and Cats

Kittens should begin their core vaccines around six to eight weeks old, with boosters continuing until 16 weeks. Core vaccines for cats include panleukopenia, calicivirus, rhinotracheitis, and rabies. After the kitten series, boosters are typically given after one year, then every one to three years. Non-core vaccines, such as feline leukemia, may be recommended for outdoor cats or those with high exposure risk.

What Vaccines Protect Against

Vaccines are designed to protect pets from diseases that can be fatal or severely affect their quality of life. Rabies is a required vaccine that also protects public health. Distemper and parvovirus can cause serious complications in dogs, while feline viral infections can spread quickly among cats. Vaccines not only protect individual pets but also help prevent outbreaks in the community.

Call Lakewood Pet Vet Today

At Lakewood Pet Vet in Lakewood, CA, we make it easy to stay on track with your pet’s vaccinations. Whether you’re raising a new puppy or kitten or keeping your adult pet protected, our experienced team can provide personalized guidance. If you're searching for a vet near you who values preventive care, call Lakewood Pet Vet at (562) 925-2300 to schedule your pet’s next visit.