How Often Should I Vaccinate My Pet?

Keeping your pet healthy and happy requires more than hearty meals, flea and tick medicine, and a consistent exercise regimen. Pets also need the benefit of vaccinations. Dr. Campbell at North Hills Animal Hospital in Sherwood wants you to know how often you should vaccinate your furry friend.

Pet Vaccines

With the many parasites and diseases that can affect your pet's health, it is important that your pet receives vaccinations as needed. At one time, a regular yearly vaccination was the standard. Today, vaccinations are administered based on each pet and their personal health history.

Core and Non-Core Vaccinations

There are two categories of pet vaccinations, core and non-core. The core vaccinations consist of pet vaccines that should be administered to keep pets safe from distemper, parvovirus, and rabies. Non-core vaccinations are important for pets who are allowed to go outdoors and may come in contact with feral or non-vaccinated animals.

Non-core vaccines are also important for pets that are frequently boarded in a kennel, go to dog parks, or pet daycare. Non-core vaccinations protect against problems, such as Bordetella and the feline leukemia virus.

When to Vaccinate

When scheduling an appointment at our animal hospital, our veterinarian will give your pet a comprehensive checkup and administer the appropriate vaccinations. Depending on your pet's age, health, and lifestyle, we will let you know when your pet will need follow-up vaccinations.

Puppies and kittens that stay indoors usually get an initial vaccination and a follow-up booster. Outdoor pets need to be on a vaccination schedule to keep them protected. Senior pets that reside indoors may no longer need certain vaccinations.

Schedule Your Pet’s Vaccinations in Sherwood, AR

Vaccinations have become an essential part of keeping millions of dogs and cats healthy. If your furry friend is not on a vaccination schedule and you would like to learn more about our vaccination services, contact Dr. Campbell at North Hills Animal Hospital to book an appointment. Call our team today at (501) 835-3577 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.