Pet Vaccinations Explained

Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to protect your four-legged friend from serious—and often fatal—diseases. At Paw Prints Animal Hospital, a full-service vet clinic in Easley, SC, we believe that informed pet parents make the best decisions for their furry companions. That’s why we’re breaking down everything you need to know about vaccinations: what’s required, what’s recommended, and how to keep your pet on schedule.

Why Are Pet Vaccines Important?

Vaccinations stimulate your pet’s immune system to recognize and fight off specific pathogens. They work before an animal is exposed to illness, and help to prevent everything from rabies to parvovirus. Some vaccines are required by law. Others are optional but strongly recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle.

By keeping your pet up to date on their shots, you not only protect them, you also help protect other pets and even people in your community. It’s part of responsible pet ownership.

Understanding the Pet Immunization Chart

Every pet is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all vaccine plan. That’s why your veterinarian creates a custom pet immunization chart based on:

• Species (dog, cat, etc.)
  
• Age and health status
  
• Indoor vs. outdoor lifestyle
  
• Local disease risks
  
• Boarding, daycare, or grooming routines
  

Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines

Veterinarians group vaccines into two categories: core (required for all pets) and non-core (based on lifestyle and risk exposure).

Core Vaccines for Dogs

These are considered essential for all dogs:

• Rabies: Fatal and transmissible to humans. Legally required in most states.
  
• Distemper: Highly contagious and often deadly. Affects the respiratory and nervous systems.
  
• Parvovirus: Causes severe vomiting and diarrhea—especially dangerous in puppies.
  
• Adenovirus (Canine Hepatitis): Affects the liver and can cause long-term organ damage.
  

These are often combined into a single “DHPP” shot.

Core Vaccines for Cats

All cats should be protected against:

• Rabies
  
• Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper): A severe and often fatal virus.
  
• Feline Calicivirus: Causes painful mouth ulcers and respiratory symptoms.
  
• Feline Herpesvirus Type I (Rhinotracheitis): Causes respiratory and eye infections.
  

These core vaccines are often bundled in the “FVRCP” combination.

Non-Core Vaccines (Dogs)

Given based on risk exposure:

• Bordetella bronchiseptica: Common cause of kennel cough. Required for most boarding and daycare facilities.
  
• Leptospirosis: Spread through wildlife urine. Can infect both dogs and humans.
  
• Lyme disease: Transmitted via ticks—especially important in wooded or grassy regions.
  
• Canine Influenza: Optional but recommended during local outbreaks or if your dog is frequently exposed to other dogs.
  

Non-Core Vaccines (Cats)

• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): Recommended for outdoor cats and kittens. Highly contagious between cats. Considered core for kittens under one year.
  
• Chlamydia felis: Causes conjunctivitis and upper respiratory problems. May be included in combination vaccines for at-risk cats.
  

Dog Vaccine Schedule by Age

Puppies (6 to 16 Weeks)

• Start core vaccines between 6–8 weeks old
  
• Boosters every 3–4 weeks
  
• Rabies by 12–16 weeks, per state law
  
• Bordetella and others added as needed
  

Adult Dogs

• Annual wellness exams and vaccine reviews
  
• Core boosters every 1–3 years
  
• Lifestyle-dependent vaccines (e.g., Bordetella, Lyme) given annually
  

Senior Dogs (7+ years)

• Vaccination needs reviewed annually
  
• Focus may shift to titers or less frequent boosters depending on health
  

Cat Vaccine Schedule by Age

Kittens (6 to 16 Weeks)

• Initial FVRCP series starts at 6–8 weeks
  
• Boosters every 3–4 weeks
  
• Rabies typically at 12–16 weeks
  
• FeLV added for at-risk kittens
  

Adult Cats

• Annual boosters and lifestyle evaluation
  
• Rabies every 1 or 3 years (vaccine type dependent)
  
• FeLV boosters annually for outdoor cats
  

Senior Cats

• Vaccine frequency adjusted based on health and risk
  
• Titers may be used to assess immunity levels
  

What Happens If Your Pet Misses a Vaccine?

Life happens. It’s not the end of the world if your pet misses a scheduled vaccine, but it is something you’d want to address as soon as possible.

Contact your vet clinic immediately. We may need to restart the series or administer a booster. Don’t delay. Gaps in protection can leave pets vulnerable to serious diseases. In some cases, boarding or daycare facilities may deny access without up-to-date vaccinations.

Debunking Common Vaccine Myths

“Indoor pets don’t need vaccines.”
Indoor pets still risk exposure through open windows, other pets, or you bringing germs in on your shoes or clothes.

“Vaccines will make my pet sick.”
Mild side effects are possible—like soreness or low energy—but serious reactions are rare. The risk of disease is far greater than the risk of vaccination.

“They already had vaccines as a puppy or kitten.”
Immunity doesn’t last forever. Boosters are needed to maintain protection throughout life.

FAQ

Are annual vaccines still necessary?

Some vaccines require annual boosters; others protect for three years. Your veterinarian will create a tailored schedule based on your pet’s specific needs.

Do indoor cats really need vaccines?

Yes—especially core vaccines like rabies and FVRCP. Indoor cats can still be exposed to viruses indirectly.

Can I combine vaccines into one appointment?

Yes! We often combine multiple vaccines during a single visit to reduce stress and keep things simple for you and your furry pal.

Conclusion

Vaccines save lives. They’re safe, affordable, and tailored to your pet’s unique needs. At Paw Prints Animal Hospital, your local vet clinic in Easley, SC, we make it easy to stay on top of your dog or cat’s vaccine schedule. Let’s work together to keep your furry bestie safe, healthy, and protected—now and into the future.

Visit our website here to learn more about our services and clinic. 

This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult with your veterinarian for the right medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment plan for your pet and follow their advice.