
Having a pet is like having a furry roommate who thinks you’re the greatest person ever! From endless cuddles to funny little habits, pets add happiness to our lives. But all that joy comes with the responsibility of keeping them safe and healthy.
Just like we need regular checkups, pets need vaccinations and deworming to stay protected from infections and annoying parasites. These simple steps help your pet stay healthy, happy, and by your side for years.
Keep reading to learn why vaccinations and deworming are important for every pet parent.
Vaccines train your pet’s immune system to recognize and fight off dangerous diseases, keeping them healthy.
Vaccinations shield your pet from harmful infections that could otherwise cause severe health issues or even be life-threatening.
Vaccinated pets are less likely to spread diseases, keeping other pets and people safe. Vaccination protects your pet and reduces the risk of diseases passing to humans (zoonotic diseases).
Treating serious diseases is expensive and difficult. Vaccinations are a smart way to prevent costly medical bills and stress for you and your pet.
Rabies: Initial dose at 3 months, with boosters annually or every 3 years.
Distemper & Parvovirus: Three doses between 6-16 weeks, followed by a booster at 1 year, then every 3 years.
Adenovirus (CAV-1, CAV-2): Same schedule as distemper and parvovirus.
Rabies: Initial dose at 8 weeks, with boosters 1 year later, then annually or every 3 years.
Feline Distemper & Respiratory Viruses (Herpesvirus, Calicivirus): Vaccinate every 3-4 weeks from 6-16 weeks, with boosters at 1 year and then every 3 years.
Rabies: One dose after 16 weeks, with boosters annually or every 3 years.
Distemper, Parvovirus & Adenovirus: Two doses, 3-4 weeks apart, with boosters at 1 year and every 3 years.
Rabies: Single dose with boosters annually or every 3 years.
Feline Distemper & Respiratory Viruses: Two doses, 3-4 weeks apart, with boosters at 1 year and every 3 years.
Dogs: Rabies, Parvovirus, Distemper, Canine Hepatitis
Cats: Rabies, Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper), Calicivirus, rhinotracheitis
Dogs: Bordetella (for kennel cough), Lyme disease, Canine Influenza
Cats: Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), Bordetella
Consult your vet to decide the best vaccine plan for your pet.
Pets can easily pick up parasites without you realizing. These parasites lead to various health problems, ranging from digestive issues to weakness and, in some cases, more serious health complications.
Common parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms can be transmitted from pets to humans, especially young children interacting closely with pets.
Puppies and kittens need deworming treatments as early as 2-3 weeks, which should be repeated at 12 and 16 weeks of age. They should also be dewormed again when they are six months and one year old.
The deworming schedule for adult pets depends on their lifestyle and environment. Your vet will recommend a more frequent schedule if your pet spends much time outdoors, visits kennels, or interacts with other animals regularly.
How often should I vaccinate my pet?
For most pets, core vaccines are administered as puppies or kittens, and booster shots are required every 1-3 years. Your vet will provide a specific vaccination schedule based on your pet’s needs.
Can I skip deworming if my pet stays indoors?
Even indoor pets can be exposed to parasites through contaminated surfaces or objects. Regular deworming is recommended for all pets to ensure they’re free of internal parasites.
Can I deworm my pet at home?
Yes, over-the-counter deworming medications are available, but consult your vet first to ensure you’re using the right type and dosage for your pet.
Why vaccinate your pets
