Question 1

What vaccines does my dog need every year?

Accepted Answer

AAHA guidelines classify dog vaccines as core and non-core. Core vaccines (required for all dogs): rabies (every 1–3 years by law), distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus (combined as DHPP, given every 3 years after initial series). Non-core vaccines given annually or every 2 years based on lifestyle: Bordetella (kennel cough), Leptospirosis, Lyme disease, Canine influenza.

Question 2

When should I vaccinate my puppy?

Accepted Answer

Puppies need a series of vaccinations starting at 6–8 weeks: DHPP at 6–8 weeks, 10–12 weeks, and 14–16 weeks; rabies at 12–16 weeks (required by law); Bordetella at 12–16 weeks if boarding or dog park exposure. The initial DHPP booster is given 1 year after the puppy series, then every 3 years. Keep your puppy away from unvaccinated dogs until 2 weeks after their final puppy shot.

Question 3

What vaccines do cats need?

Accepted Answer

AAFP core cat vaccines: rabies and FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia). FVRCP is given every 3 years after the initial series. Rabies varies by state law: annually or every 3 years. Non-core vaccines based on lifestyle: FeLV (feline leukaemia) for outdoor cats, FIV for cats exposed to infected cats. Indoor-only cats may not need non-core vaccines.

Question 4

How often do dogs need rabies vaccines?

Accepted Answer

The frequency depends on your location and the vaccine used. Most jurisdictions require initial rabies vaccination at 12–16 weeks, a booster 1 year later, then every 1 or 3 years depending on state/country law and the vaccine brand. 3-year rabies vaccines are widely available. Always check your local regulations — rabies vaccination requirements are enforced by law in most countries.

Question 5

Are there risks to over-vaccinating pets?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Unnecessary booster vaccines carry small risks including injection-site reactions, allergic responses, and in rare cases vaccine-associated sarcomas in cats. Modern AAHA and AAFP guidelines moved away from annual boosters for core vaccines precisely because over-vaccination provides no added immunity benefit. Titer testing can confirm existing immunity if you are concerned about over-vaccination.

💉 Vaccination Schedule

ZenPet Assistant