Pet vaccines are divided into two categories: core and non-core (also known as lifestyle). Core vaccines protect against diseases that are widespread, highly contagious, or particularly dangerous. For dogs, core vaccines include rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus. For cats, core vaccines protect against rabies, feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, and panleukopenia. We recommend these vaccines for all pets because the diseases they pose serious health risks. And in the case of the rabies vaccine, it’s required by law.
Non-core vaccines are given based on your pet’s lifestyle and exposure risk. For dogs, these may include vaccines for kennel cough (bordetella), leptospirosis, Lyme disease, and canine influenza. Cats with outdoor access or those living with other cats may benefit from the feline leukemia virus vaccine. During your appointment, we will ask you about your pet’s activities and environment to determine which non-core vaccines make sense for them.
