Vaccinations are an important part of disease prevention in dogs and cats. Many common, serious, and even fatal diseases can be prevented with a comprehensive vaccination program. Shaker Veterinary Hospital provides individualized care for each patient. There is no longer a "one size fits all" approach to vaccination, rather, your pet’s age, lifestyle, and risk factors are taken into consideration when we design a vaccination program for your furry friend.

The following protocols are general recommendations for the vaccination of puppies, kittens, adult dogs, and adult cats. After discussion with you and a thorough physical examination of your pet, your veterinarian may modify this schedule to tailor it to your pet’s individual needs.

Dog Vaccinations

DAP - Combined Vaccination Protecting Against Canine Distemper, Adenovirus, and Parvovirus

For Puppies - We recommend vaccinating every 3-4 weeks starting at 8 weeks old and ending at 16 weeks.

For Non-Vaccinated Adult Dogs (or adult dog with unknown vaccination history) – We recommend 2 sets of vaccinations given 3 – 4 weeks apart.

After the initial series, your pet will receive a one year booster. Subsequent vaccinations will be given every 3 years.

Rabies – Rabies vaccination is required by state law.

Puppies need to be vaccinated against Rabies at 12 weeks of age.

A non-vaccinated adult dog (or adult dog with unknown vaccination history) needs immediate vaccination.

The first Rabies vaccination is good for 1 year. Subsequent vaccinations are good for 3 years.

Lyme Disease Vaccination

The first time a dog is vaccinated against Lyme Disease, 2 doses given at 3-4 week intervals are necessary

After the first year, annual vaccinations are necessary.

Bordetella (Kennel Cough) Vaccination

The vaccination is given as an intranasal spray, unless otherwise determined by the veterinarian. For high-risk dogs, an injection every 6 months is required to maintain immunity.

Leptospirosis Vaccination

Leptospirosis Vaccinations are given to at-risk dogs based on the pet’s history and lifestyle.

The first time a dog is vaccinated against leptospirosis, 2 doses given at 2-4 week intervals are required. After the first year, annual vaccinations are necessary.

Cat Vaccinations

HCP - Combined Vaccination Protecting Against Feline Rhinotracheitis-Calci-Panleukopenia

For Kittens and Adult Cats - We recommend 2 sets of vaccinations given at 3 – 4 week intervals.

Your cat will get a booster vaccine 1 year after the initial set. Subsequent vaccinations are good for 3 years.

Feline Leukemia Vaccination

This vaccination is recommended for all outdoor cats.

For Kittens and Adult Cats - We recommend vaccinating every 3-4 weeks from approximately 8 weeks of age until 16 weeks.

After the first year, this vaccination should be administered yearly.

Rabies Vaccination

Kittens need to be vaccinated against Rabies at 12 weeks of age.

A non-vaccinated adult cat (or adult cat with unknown vaccination history) needs immediate vaccination.

The first Rabies vaccination is good for 1 year. Subsequent vaccinations are good for 3 years.