Pet Vaccinations

Having your dog or cat vaccinated is one
of the best things you can do.

Being an animal owner is a big responsibility.

And in addition to the basic things – like feeding your pet and making sure they get enough exercise – you need to take steps to protect them from preventable illnesses. Having your dog or cat vaccinated is one of the best things you can do for their long-term health. Vaccines are safe and highly effective, and we recommend them for all of our patients. For pet vaccinations in Foster City and San Mateo, trust the expert veterinarians right here at Animal Cove Pet Hospital.

Core and Non-Core Vaccines

Most pets need a combination of core and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are the ones that are recommended for all pets and include rabies, parvovirus, canine hepatitis, and distemper for dogs and rabies, panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis, and feline calicivirus for cats.

Non-core vaccines, on the other hand, are recommended for certain pets based on lifestyle factors, such as whether you take your dog to dog parks or boarding facilities or whether your cat goes outside. Non-core vaccines for dogs include Bordetella and leptospirosis while non-core options for cats include Bordetella as well as feline leukemia.

At Animal Cove Pet Hospital, we are here to help you determine which vaccines your companion needs and get them on a schedule that will protect them for life.

Pet Vaccines FAQs

How often does my pet need to be vaccinated?

The frequency of vaccinations depends on the specific vaccine, your pet’s age and health, and if your pet has been given the same vaccine previously. Our veterinarians will create a vaccination schedule to ensure your pet receives the necessary protection.

Are there any side effects of pet vaccinations?

Most cats and dogs experience minimal or no side effects from vaccines. Some may have mild reactions like soreness at the injection site or slight lethargy, which typically resolves within a day or two. Severe reactions are rare, but if you notice any concerning symptoms, contact us immediately.

What should I do if I miss my pet’s vaccination appointment?

Contact us as soon as possible to reschedule. Maintaining the vaccination schedule is important for your pet’s ongoing protection, and we can help you get back on track if an appointment is missed. If you wait too long during a booster series, that series will need to be restarted.

Can my pet be vaccinated if they are sick or pregnant?

We recommend postponing vaccinations if your pet is sick, as their immune system may not respond correctly. Pregnant pets can receive certain vaccines, but it’s important to discuss your pet’s specific situation with our veterinarians to determine the best course of action.