At Butler Veterinary Hospital, we know how much you want to keep your pet happy, healthy, and protected. Vaccinations are one of the most important parts of preventive care, helping pets avoid serious and sometimes life-threatening diseases. Below, our veterinary team addresses frequently asked questions about vaccines.
Why Are Vaccines Important for Pets?
Vaccines protect pets from contagious illnesses that can spread quickly and cause severe complications. They also help safeguard your family and community by reducing the risk of zoonotic diseases (those that can spread from animals to people).
Which Vaccines Does My Pet Need?
There are core vaccines, recommended for all pets, and non-core vaccines, recommended based on lifestyle and risk. For dogs, core vaccines typically include rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus. For cats, rabies, feline distemper (panleukopenia), calicivirus, and herpesvirus are considered essential. Non-core vaccines, like Bordetella or feline leukemia, may be advised if your pet’s environment or activities increase exposure risk.
How Often Should Pets Be Vaccinated?
Puppies and kittens need a series of vaccines starting around 6–8 weeks of age, with boosters every few weeks until about 16 weeks old. Adult pets typically need boosters every 1–3 years, depending on the vaccine type and our veterinarians’ recommendations.
Are Vaccines Safe?
Yes. Just like human vaccines, modern veterinary vaccines are extensively tested for safety and effectiveness. Most pets only experience mild, temporary side effects such as slight soreness at the injection site or fatigue. Severe reactions are rare, but if you notice swelling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing after a vaccination, contact your veterinarian immediately.
What Happens If I Skip Vaccines?
Unvaccinated pets are at risk for dangerous diseases like parvovirus, distemper, or rabies. These illnesses can be costly to treat, or even fatal. Staying on schedule with vaccinations is one of the easiest ways to protect your pet’s long-term health.
Can Indoor-Only Pets Skip Vaccines?
Even indoor pets need protection. Diseases like rabies are required by law, and viruses can still enter your home through visitors, other pets, or even on your shoes. Vaccinations are a safeguard no matter your pet’s lifestyle.
Call Our Veterinarians near You to Learn More About Pet Vaccines
At Butler Veterinary Hospital, we tailor vaccine plans to meet your pet’s unique needs. Call us today at (973) 850-6300 to schedule your pet’s vaccination appointment and keep it protected year-round. Serving Butler, Wayne, Bloomingdale, Pompton Lakes, Pompton Plains, Pequannock, Oakland, West Milford, Riverdale, Wanaque, Ringwood, Mountain Lakes, and Kinnelon, NJ, our veterinary team is here to answer your most common questions about your pet.