At the Animal Clinic of Honolulu, we have years of experience providing local pet owners with reliable veterinary services. One important aspect of our practice is vaccination. For your convenience, we have compiled a list of the questions we receive most often regarding vaccines.

What Are Pet Vaccines For?

Vaccinations are essential for protecting your pet from potentially life-threatening diseases. They are also important for ensuring the safety of you, your family, and other pets in your community. Vaccines protect your pet from diseases such as rabies which can be transmitted to humans. They also protect your pet from serious illnesses such as respiratory tract infections, canine distemper, and parvovirus, all of which can be deadly.

When Should I Vaccinate My Pets?

Most core vaccines are administered in a series of dosages at the ages of 6, 12, and 16 weeks old. This includes the DHLLP vaccine, which protects your pet from distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. After being vaccinated, your pet will maintain its immunities for 3 years between booster shots.

Why Are Cats and Dogs Vaccinated at Different Life Stages?

Core vaccines are administered in the puppy stage if possible. Some vaccines, such as the Bordetella vaccine, are given annually or bi-annually. Other vaccines, such as rabies, are administered every 3 years following the initial shot.

Kittens are typically given the core FVRCP vaccine at 8, 12, and 16 weeks in addition to the rabies vaccine and parasite prevention shots. Your cat will be evaluated for age-specific conditions in the adult and senior stages of life.

How Do I Know My Pet Is Receiving the Correct Vaccines?

Our veterinarian will help you navigate the vaccination process. All pets require core vaccines, and we will recommend non-core vaccines based on your pet’s breed, environment, and lifestyle. Diseases vary in prominence geographically. Our veterinarian will evaluate your pet and develop the most effective vaccination schedule possible.

Veterinary Professionals in Honolulu

At the Animal Clinic of Honolulu, we provide a full range of pet care services including vaccinations, boarding, wellness exams, and microchipping. To learn more about vaccinations or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian, call us at (808) 734-0255.