Pet Vaccinations FAQs

Many pet owners wonder if vaccinations are really necessary for their pet, especially if their pet spends most of his time indoors. At Faith Veterinary Clinic, serving North Brunswick and Somerset, NJ, our veterinarian will guide you on what vaccines your pet needs, even as an indoor pet. Here are some commonly asked questions about pet vaccinations.

Why does my pet need vaccines?

Vaccinations safeguard your pet against dangerous diseases that can compromise his health or lead to death. Even indoor pets need this protection, as they can contract a disease in the short time they’re outside or when playing with neighboring pets. Vaccines also help curtail the spread of contagious diseases between you and your pet or other animals. Our pet clinic offers core and non-core vaccines for your pet.     

How do pet vaccines work?

Vaccines activate your pet’s immune system to fight against diseases that would ordinarily make him sick. Some vaccines protect your pet from getting a disease. Other vaccines reduce the symptoms so your pet doesn’t succumb entirely to the illness. Either way, vaccines protect your pet’s health.

What vaccinations does my pet need?

Core vaccinations are necessary for all pets, as these protect your pet from deadly, non-curable diseases. Core vaccines for dogs include rabies, distemper, canine hepatitis, and parvovirus. Core vaccines for cats include rabies, feline herpesvirus, feline panleukopenia virus, and feline calicivirus.

In addition to core vaccines, you can get your pet vaccinated against diseases for which he’s at high risk due to his location or lifestyle. If your pet spends a good amount of time outdoors, socializes often with other pets, or attends doggie daycare, he’s at greater risk of contracting a disease. Our veterinarian can help you determine the best non-core vaccines for your pet.   

How often should I have my pet vaccinated?

Our veterinary specialist will customize your pet’s vaccination schedule to suit his age, breed, state of health, location, and lifestyle. This ensures he gets the protection he needs to stay in good health. You can bring your pet to our animal hospital for booster shots when necessary.

What kind of vaccines do kittens and puppies need?

Younger pets need a series of vaccines to safeguard their health. These vaccines can start when your pet is around 6-8 weeks old and continue every 3-4 weeks until he reaches 16-17 weeks of age, after which he will be put on a vaccination schedule by our veterinarian.

Visit Our Animal Hospitals in North Brunswick and Somerset, NJ for Pet Vaccinations

To schedule vaccinations for your pet, contact Faith Veterinary Clinic. Our veterinary team provides quality care and will answer any questions you have. Call us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more.