At Chatswood Veterinary Clinic, we believe that prevention is the best medicine—especially when it comes to the health and longevity of your furry companions. One of the most essential preventive measures you can take as a responsible pet owner is ensuring your pet is up to date with their vaccinations.
But why are pet vaccinations so important? What diseases do they prevent? And when should your pet be vaccinated? Let’s dive into everything you need to know to protect your pet with confidence.
🐾 What Are Pet Vaccinations?
Vaccinations help stimulate your pet’s immune system to produce a defense against specific diseases. These vaccines are typically made from weakened or inactive forms of the disease-causing organisms. Once vaccinated, your pet’s body is better equipped to fight off real infections in the future.
There are two types of vaccines:
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Core vaccines, which are essential for all pets regardless of lifestyle.
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Non-core vaccines, which are recommended based on your pet’s risk factors, environment, and travel habits.
🐶 Vaccines for Dogs
Core Vaccines for Dogs:
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Canine Parvovirus
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Distemper
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Canine Hepatitis
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Rabies (required by law in many regions)
Non-Core Vaccines:
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Kennel Cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica)
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Leptospirosis
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Canine Influenza
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Lyme Disease
Many of these diseases can be life-threatening, especially for puppies or dogs with compromised immune systems. Our team at Chatswood Veterinary Clinic will recommend a tailored vaccination schedule based on your dog’s breed, age, and lifestyle.
🐱 Vaccines for Cats
Core Vaccines for Cats:
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Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper)
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Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1)
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Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
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Rabies
Non-Core Vaccines:
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Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
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Chlamydia
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Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
Indoor cats may still need some non-core vaccines depending on your household and local risks. Outdoor cats are more exposed and may require more comprehensive protection.
🗓️ When Should You Vaccinate Your Pet?
At Chatswood Veterinary Clinic, we typically recommend the following:
For Puppies & Kittens:
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Start at 6–8 weeks of age
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Booster shots every 3–4 weeks until around 16 weeks old
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A booster at 1 year of age
For Adult Pets:
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Annual check-ups to assess vaccine needs
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Some vaccines (like rabies) may be required every 1–3 years, depending on local laws and vaccine type
Every pet is unique. That’s why we develop individualised vaccination plans to ensure the best protection without over-vaccination.
🧬 Are Vaccines Safe?
Yes! Vaccines used by veterinary clinics in Australia go through rigorous testing and are regulated for safety. Like with any medical treatment, mild side effects can occur, such as:
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Soreness at the injection site
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Mild fever or tiredness
Serious reactions are rare, and our veterinarians are trained to monitor and respond to any adverse events. If you ever notice anything unusual after a vaccination, we’re just a phone call away.
📍 Why Vaccinate at Chatswood Veterinary Clinic?
We understand that your pet is more than just an animal—they’re family. At Chatswood Veterinary Clinic, we offer:
✔️ A warm, stress-free environment
✔️ Experienced vets who know your pet’s history
✔️ Transparent vaccine plans tailored to your pet’s lifestyle
✔️ Ongoing support and reminders for booster schedules
Our goal is to help every pet live a long, happy, and healthy life—starting with strong immune protection.
🐕 Book Your Pet’s Vaccination Today!
Whether you’re welcoming a new puppy or kitten into your home or just due for a booster, don’t wait to vaccinate. Protect your best friend and give yourself peace of mind.
