Pet Vaccinations:
Simple Protection That Lasts a Lifetime
Your pet depends on you for everything — food, love, belly rubs… and protection from the invisible nasties they can’t see coming. Vaccinations are a quick, easy, and highly effective way to shield your dog or cat from some of the most serious (and contagious) diseases.
Whether you’ve just welcomed a new kitten or puppy into the family or you’re caring for an older rescue or long-time companion, staying on top of their vaccinations is one of the smartest things you can do to keep them healthy, active, and safe — for life.
Why Vaccinate?
Vaccines work by teaching your pet’s immune system how to recognise and fight harmful viruses and bacteria before they cause illness. They don’t just protect your pet — they reduce the spread of infectious diseases among animals and even help protect humans in some cases (like rabies).
Many of the illnesses we vaccinate against can be:
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Severe or fatal
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Incurable once contracted
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Easily spread between pets through contact, bowls, grooming, or shared spaces
A simple annual booster could mean the difference between a happy, healthy pet and a serious emergency.
Essential Vaccines for Dogs
Your dog’s vaccination schedule should be tailored to their age, breed, lifestyle, and risk factors — but here’s a breakdown of what most dogs need:
Core Vaccines (Required for All Dogs):
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Canine Distemper – A serious, often fatal viral infection that affects the lungs, brain, and digestive tract.
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Parvovirus – A highly contagious and deadly virus that causes vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, and dehydration.
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Canine Hepatitis (Adenovirus) – Causes liver failure and respiratory issues.
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Rabies – Fatal in both animals and humans. Legally required and must be kept up to date.
Essential Vaccines for Cats
Even indoor cats need vaccinations — viruses can be carried on clothing, brought in by other pets, or transmitted through shared spaces.
Core Vaccines for All Cats:
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Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper) – A life-threatening virus that attacks the immune and digestive systems.
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Feline Herpesvirus & Calicivirus – Major causes of feline flu, causing sneezing, coughing, mouth ulcers, and eye discharge.
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Rabies – Required by law, and especially vital if your cat ever escapes outside or travels.
Non-Core (Lifestyle-Based) Vaccines:
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Leptospirosis – A bacterial infection often found in contaminated water, more common in warm climates and rainy seasons.
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Kennel Cough (Bordetella) – A common, highly contagious upper respiratory illness; particularly important if your dog boards, visits dog parks, or attends grooming.
Non-Core Vaccines:
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Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) – Can suppress immunity and lead to cancer. Recommended for outdoor or multi-cat homes.
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Chlamydia felis – Causes conjunctivitis and respiratory issues in young cats and cattery environments.
Puppy Vaccine Schedule:
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1st vaccination: 6–8 weeks
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2nd vaccination: 10–12 weeks
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3rd vaccination (if needed): 14–16 weeks
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Annual boosters: Every 12 months thereafter
Kitten Vaccine Schedule:
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1st vaccination: 6–8 weeks
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2nd vaccination: 10–12 weeks
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Booster: 12 months after the second vaccination
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Annual or biannual boosters depending on lifestyle and vet recommendation
Local Considerations for Pet Vaccination
Living in a densely populated, warm-climate environment means your pet may be at higher risk of exposure. Here’s what that means in practice:
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Higher boarding rates mean greater need for kennel cough and FeLV protection.
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Stray animals and feral cats increase the risk of transmissible disease in public spaces.
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High temperatures can weaken immunity during illness and slow recovery — another reason prevention is key.
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International pet travel often requires proof of recent rabies vaccination, and sometimes additional certificates.
Keeping Track: Your Pet’s Vaccination Records
When your pet receives a vaccine, we’ll record:
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The type of vaccine
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The date administered
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The expiry date
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The batch number
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The next due booster
You’ll receive a vaccination booklet or certificate — especially important for:
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Boarding, grooming, and daycare
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Travelling internationally
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Emergency vet visits
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Legal requirements
We also keep internal records, so we’ll send reminders when your pet’s next booster is due.
Side Effects & Aftercare
Most pets handle vaccinations very well. The most common minor reactions include:
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Sleepiness for a few hours
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Mild swelling at the injection site
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Low appetite for a day
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Occasional yelp or sensitivity near the shoulder
These symptoms typically disappear within 24 hours. If you ever notice vomiting, persistent lethargy, or swelling of the face — contact us immediately, although such reactions are extremely rare.
FAQs
Some vaccines provide multi-year protection, but others (especially for kennel cough and leptospirosis) need annual boosters. We’ll guide you on the right schedule.
Is Your Pet Due for a Vaccine?
If you can’t remember the last time your pet was vaccinated — or if they’ve never had any at all — don’t worry. We’ll help you get back on track with a plan that’s right for your pet’s age, lifestyle, and health history.
Message us on WhatsApp or call now to book a vaccination appointment with our friendly team.
A few minutes of prevention today = years of peace of mind. Let’s protect your pet. Book now.