Vaccinations

Vaccinations are so important in protecting your pet from various diseases that cause pain, illness and can be fatal. Annual vaccination appointments also provide an opportunity for regular health checks for your pet.

Vaccinations for cats and dogs usually consist of a primary course of 2 vaccinations to stimulate an immune response, followed by annual boosters as the initial immune response gradually fades over time.

For dogs, the first vaccination can be done from 8 weeks, with the second vaccination given 2-4 weeks later. The main vaccinations given to dogs are distemper, parvovirus, canine infectious hepatitis, parainfluenza and leptospirosis.

We also recommend vaccinating your dog against kennel cough, which can be done at the same time as your dog’s regular booster. If your dog travels abroad with you, they are likely to require a rabies vaccination for their pet passport.

Cats can be vaccinated from 9 weeks of age, with a second vaccination 3-4 weeks later. Main cat vaccinations include feline herpesvirus and calicivirus (two agents responsible for cat flu) and feline panleukopaenia virus which causes feline infectious enteritis.

We also recommend vaccinating your cat against the feline leukaemia virus, a virus which suppresses the immune system and is potentially fatal.

At Holme Veterinary, we offer a vaccination reminder service, and do not forget to bring your vaccination certificates if your pets are going into kennels.

It is important to keep your pet’s vaccinations up to date, as a delay in their booster allows for a decrease in immunity, and may mean that your pet needs to restart their primary vaccination course.