Pet Vaccinations
Vaccinations play a crucial role in keeping your pet healthy by providing protection against serious diseases.
At Redlands Animal Hospital, our veterinary team helps you make informed choices about your pet’s health, including the proper vaccine schedule. Vaccinations contribute to the health and safety of pets, people, and other animals in our Redlands, CA community.
The Science Behind Vaccines
Vaccines work by stimulating your pet’s immune system to recognize and fight specific diseases. When a pet vaccination is administered, it introduces a small, harmless amount of the disease-causing organism or protein into your pet’s body. This prompts the immune system to create antibodies that “remember” how to fight off the actual disease if your pet is ever exposed to it in the future.
To build strong immunity, pets require a series of initial vaccine doses, especially when they’re young. Puppies and kittens will receive several rounds of vaccinations during 8 to 16 weeks old (on average) to establish a robust defense against common diseases. Over time, the protection provided by vaccines can diminish. That’s why booster vaccines matter—they help “remind” the immune system and maintain strong protection. For certain diseases, boosters may be needed annually, while others are effective for several years. Our veterinarians will develop a vaccination schedule based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and specific health needs.
Are Vaccinations Safe for Cats and Dogs?
One of the most common vaccine questions pet parents have is about the safety of their pet’s vaccinations. Vaccines used in veterinary medicine are extensively tested to make sure that they are safe and effective. Redlands Animal Hospital follows the latest veterinary guidelines for your pet’s safety and health. Side effects from pet vaccinations are rare. When they do occur, the effects are typically mild, such as a mild temperature or tenderness at the injection site. If you have any concerns, please talk to our team about your pet’s vaccines.
Core vs. Non-Core
Pet Vaccines
Vaccines are generally divided into two categories: core and non-core (lifestyle) vaccines. Core vaccines are recommended for all pets because they protect against diseases that are widespread and pose a severe risk to both pets and humans. Non-core vaccines are optional and may be recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle, environment, and potential exposure to specific diseases. During your pet’s wellness exam or vaccine appointment, your veterinarian will have a discussion with you and review any previous shot records to determine which vaccines are best suited to your pet’s needs.
Dog Vaccinations
For dogs, certain vaccines are considered essential or core. The Distemper vaccine (which you may see on your pet’s medical records as DAPP or DHPP) is strongly recommended for all dogs. This vaccine protects against Canine Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvo. The Rabies shot is required by law for dogs over four months of age. Vaccinations that our veterinarians may suggest for your pup include:
Rabies
Distemper
Bordetella
Leptospirosis
Canine Influenza
Rattlesnake Vaccine
Cat Vaccinations
Cats have their own set of essential vaccines to protect against highly contagious diseases. A Rabies shot is required by law for any cat in California over four months of age. The FVRCP vaccine guards against Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Feline Calicivirus, and Feline Panleukopenia. Our veterinarians will discuss a vaccine plan for your cat, which may include:
Rabies
FVRCP
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
Chlamydophila Felis
Bordetella
Choosing the right vaccinations is an important part of responsible pet ownership.
If you’re ready to schedule your pet’s vaccinations or have any questions, our team at Redlands Animal Hospital is here to help. Contact us to schedule a pet vaccine appointment and keep your pet protected, healthy, and ready for a happy future.
Redlands Animal Hospital performs vaccinations for dogs and cats in Redlands, Yucaipa, Highland, Loma Linda, Calimesa, Beaumont, Fontana, Colton, San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, and the surrounding California areas.
