Rabies is a core or essential vaccine since the Rabies virus is contagious to animals and people. Local laws also mandate that any dog over 16 weeks be current on Rabies vaccination. Rabies is transmitted through direct contact with infected animal saliva or tissue. The virus attacks the neurological system and is considered fatal. Duration of the vaccine is based on age, risk of exposure, and prior vaccine history. R.I.P. Old Yeller

Also known as the DHP or Distemper-Parvo, the vaccine is considered a core or essential vaccine for all dogs. It provides protection against Distemper Virus, Adenovirus 1 & 2, and Parvovirus. These are common and contagious viruses that attack organ systems of dogs. Parvo is the one you hear about: bloody diarrhea and vomiting.

Though a non-core or life-style based vaccine, Bordetella bronchiseptica is a highly contagious bacteria that infects the respiratory system of dogs. Parainfluenza is a virus that also causes respiratory disease. The vaccine is commonly known as the Kennel Cough vaccine or the one needed for boarding or grooming. Yes, Bordetella and influenza are part of the infectious respiratory complex, “kennel cough”, but most dogs with an active life-style benefit from the protection.

Lepto is now considered a core or essential vaccine since the organism is contagious to people as well as pets. The lepto bacteria is shed in urine of animals such as rats and raccoons and lives in moist soil and water. Think twice about Fido drinking from that puddle. The bacteria can cause multi-organ damage.

The influenza vaccine is a life-style or non-core vaccine that protects against the dog flu or CIV (canine influenza virus). CIV is a relatively new disease and gives another reason to be concerned about that cough. The vaccine is recommended for dogs that go to kennels, day-care, and boarding facilities since it spreads through the air.

The Lyme vaccine is a non-core or life-style vaccine. Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria shed by black-legged ticks. The bacteria invades the body through the bloodstream and wreaks havoc. Dogs exposed to wooded areas, high-risk regions, and tick-infested areas should be vaccinated. This is not just a Northern disease.

Every dog is different, and their vaccines should be too. We use highly purified vaccines and low-volume options whenever possible to help reduce reactions and make vaccination more comfortable. Before vaccinating, we’ll talk with you about your dog’s lifestyle to ensure they receive only the protection they truly need. Vaccine reactions are rare but can happen. Learn about vaccine reactions here:

Rabies is a core or essential vaccine since the Rabies virus is contagious to animals and people. Local laws also mandate that any cat over 16 weeks be current on Rabies vaccination. Rabies is transmitted through direct contact with infected animal saliva or tissue. The virus attacks the neurological system and is considered fatal. Even indoor only cats can be at risk for the virus from bats. Duration of the vaccine is based on age, risk of exposure, and prior vaccine history. We use Purevax® feline vaccines to provide the safest protection.

FVRCP stands for Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia. The vaccine is considered a core or essential vaccine for all cats since the viruses are highly contagious and can be life-threatening. The viruses attack the cat’s respiratory or immune system. It’s the cat’s “distemper” vaccine.

The Leukemia vaccine is a non-core or life-style vaccine for adult cats and is abbreviated as FeLV. Leukemia is that bad cat virus you have heard about due to high fatality rates. The virus is spread through direct contact with an infected cat usually by saliva. The virus attacks the immune system and can manifest into organ cancer.

Not a vaccine but an essential blood test for cats, the combo test detects the Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). Both viruses are contagious between cats and attack the immune system causing sometimes fatal illnesses. We consider this screening test essential for kittens, cats with unknown health history, and high-risk life-styles. It only takes 10 minutes to get results.

Every cat owner knows cats are one of a kind. That’s why we use only the safest vaccines designed specifically for them. Our feline vaccines are highly purified to help reduce the risk of reactions, and we use low-volume options whenever possible to make vaccination easier and more comfortable. We carry Purevax Rabies as part of our commitment to vaccine safety. Luckily, vaccine reactions are rare in cats. Learn more about reactions here: