Vaccinations

Vaccinations are an important part of keeping your pet healthy. At Bellevue Veterinary Hospital, we provide both core vaccines, which are recommended for every pet, and optional vaccines, which are chosen based on your pet's lifestyle, environment, and risk factors. Your veterinarian will help determine the best plan for your dog or cat.

Core Vaccines:

• Rabies: Recommended for both dogs and cats. First dose is given at around 16 weeks of age, followed by a booster one year later, and then every three years.

• DAP for dogs (Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus): Puppies receive this vaccine at 8, 12, and 16 weeks, with a booster one year later, and then every three years.

• HCP for cats (Herpes, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia): Kittens receive this vaccine at 8, 12, and 16 weeks, with a booster one year later, and then every three years.

Optional Vaccines (based on lifestyle and risk):

• Kennel Cough (Bordetella) for dogs: Recommended for dogs who go to grooming salons, daycare, obedience classes, or boarding facilities. Given once a year if needed.

• Leptospirosis for dogs: Protects against bacteria spread by wildlife such as raccoons or rats. This disease can damage the kidneys and may also affect people. Given annually if your pet is at risk.

• Lyme disease for dogs: Recommended for pets who spend time in tick-prone areas. Given annually when appropriate.

• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) for cats: Usually recommended for kittens, outdoor cats, or cats in multi-cat households. The need for this vaccine in older indoor cats is assessed individually.

General schedule:

• Puppies and kittens: Vaccinations typically begin at 8 weeks of age, with boosters at 12 and 16 weeks.

• A booster is given one year later.

• Core vaccines (Rabies, DAP, HCP) are repeated every three years.

• Optional vaccines are generally repeated annually if needed.

Vaccinations not only protect your pet, but also help protect your family and community from preventable diseases. Some illnesses, like rabies and leptospirosis, can spread from animals to humans, making vaccines an essential part of overall health.

If you have questions about which vaccines are right for your pet, or you'd like to book an appointment, please contact Bellevue Veterinary Hospital. We're here to create a plan that fits your pet's unique needs and keeps them happy and healthy.