faq vaccines

​Q:  When should my puppy/kitten get vaccines, an what do they need?

• Vaccines are began at 6-8 weeks of age.
• A distemper vaccine is given every 3-4 weeks until 12-16 weeks of age.
• The rabies vaccine is given between 12-16 weeks of age.
• After the core vaccines are given, then we recommend starting the Lyme and/or Lepto vaccines if they are warranted for your pets lifestyle.
• We also recommend bringing a fecal sample to your pets first exam. Many pets are dewormed while still at the breeders, although it is common for pets to need multiple dewormings in order to get rid of parasites.  So it is always a good idea to check a stool sample to make sure they do not have any parasites remaining. 

Q:  Why does my indoor cat need vaccines?

• The rabies vaccine is required by the state of Pennsylvania for all dogs and cats.

Q:  Why do I have to pay for an exam just to get a Rabies vaccine?

• We perform an exam each time a pet is getting vaccines, we do this to make sure that your pet is healthy enough for vaccines.  Also, the rabies vaccine can only be administered by a veterinarian.

Q: Does my pet need the Lyme vaccine?

• The best mode of protection against Lyme Disease is keeping your pet on a good flea and tick preventative.
• If you live in a heavily tick populated area or take your pet to areas where ticks are commonly at, then we do recommend having the Lyme vaccine done for extra protection.

Q: Does my pet need the Leptospirosis vaccine?

• ​Some clinics automatically give each pet the Lepto vaccine, sometimes they will even pair it in the Distemper Vaccine itself.  We do not.  We only vaccinate for Leptospirosis if your pets lifestyle warrants it.
  • ​Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease which primarily affects dogs, people, and livestock and is transmissible among species.
  • Leptospira bacteria is spread through the infected urine of livestock and numerous wildlife species, among them raccoons, skunks, mice and rats. Left untreated, Leptospirosis can result in liver and kidney failure.
• ​Dogs that are exposed to areas that are inhabited by wildlife are most at risk,but even dogs in city like areas are at risk since rodents are carriers.
• We recommend getting the Lepto vaccine if your pet lives in an area where wildlife are commonly found, if you hunt, or hike with your pet in areas where your pet can drink from ponds or puddles that are contaminated.