Protecting Your Pets Starts with the Right Shots, Here’s What Local Pet Owners Need to Know
Keeping your furry companions healthy is about more than love and belly rubs. Vaccines play a crucial role in preventing serious illnesses and ensuring a long, happy life for your pets. If you’re searching for a trusted Kelowna vet hospital or you’re wondering about the cat vaccination schedule or the dog vaccination schedule, this guide breaks down everything you need to know and is tailored for pet parents in the Okanagan. Ready to protect your pet? Book your vaccination appointment with Lakecity Animal Hospital today.
Core and Optional Dog Vaccines: A Must-Have for Your Pup’s Protection
Dog vaccines fall into two main categories: core and optional (non-core). Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs, regardless of their lifestyle, while optional vaccines depend on your dog’s environment and activities.
Core Vaccines for Dogs Include:
Vaccines aren’t just a formality, they’re your dog’s best defence against life-threatening diseases. Every dog, no matter their breed or background, should receive a set of core vaccines to protect against the most serious and contagious illnesses.
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Rabies vaccine – While it’s not legally required in British Columbia, the rabies vaccine protects both pets and people from this fatal, zoonotic virus.
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Canine distemper – A severe viral disease affecting a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
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Adenovirus (hepatitis) – Helps prevent canine infectious hepatitis, which can cause liver failure and even death.
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Parvovirus – Highly contagious and often deadly, especially for puppies, parvo attacks the intestines and immune system.
These vaccines are typically bundled into a DHPP shot (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza) that your vet will administer during early puppyhood and again during routine annual dog vaccinations.
Optional Dog Vaccines May Include:
Not every dog faces the same risks. That’s why optional (non-core) vaccines exist, to tailor protection based on your dog’s lifestyle.
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Bordetella (kennel cough) – A must for social pups that visit dog clinics, dog parks, groomers, or boarding facilities.
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Leptospirosis – A bacterial disease that spreads through water or urine from wildlife. Particularly important for dogs who hike, camp, or play in puddles.
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Lyme disease – If you live near wooded or grassy areas in the Okanagan, this tick-borne illness can pose a serious threat.
Still asking yourself what vaccinations do dogs need? That’s where expert guidance from your local Okanagan vet comes in. At Lakecity Animal Hospital, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Our team will walk you through the ideal dog vaccination schedule based on your pup’s age, breed, and risk exposure. Whether you’re booking your first puppy visit or need guidance on yearly vaccinations for dogs, our Kelowna and Westbank animal hospital team has you covered.
The Dog Vaccination Schedule: When to Book Those Shots in Kelowna
Timing matters when it comes to yearly vaccinations for dogs. Puppies require a series of dog shots beginning at 6–8 weeks of age, followed by boosters at specific intervals.
Here’s a basic dog vaccination schedule:
| Age | Vaccinations |
|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | Distemper, Parvovirus |
| 10–12 weeks | DHPP, Leptospirosis (optional), Bordetella (optional) |
| 14–16 weeks | Rabies, DHPP |
| 12–16 months | Boosters for DHPP and Rabies |
| Annually | Bordetella, Leptospirosis (if needed) |
Need a reminder? Lakecity Animal Hospital makes it easy to keep track of your dog’s vaccine needs with digital records and friendly reminders. Whether you’re new to the area or just looking for a dog clinic you can trust, their team has your back.
Understanding Cat Vaccinations: Core Shots, Rabies, and Schedules
Your feline family member may seem self-sufficient, but they still need essential vaccines, yes, even indoor cats! A proper cat vaccination schedule protects them against dangerous diseases and ensures community safety.
Core Cat Vaccines Include:
Vaccinating your cat isn’t just about following a schedule it’s about protecting them from preventable, often fatal diseases. Whether you have a curious outdoor explorer or a cozy couch cat, following a proper cat vaccination schedule is one of the most important things you can do for their long-term health.
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FVRCP – This combination vaccine shields your cat from three serious viral infections:
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Feline viral rhinotracheitis (a major cause of upper respiratory infections),
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Calicivirus (responsible for painful ulcers and breathing issues), and
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Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper, which can be deadly).
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Rabies vaccine – While it’s not legally required in British Columbia, this vaccine protects your cat and the public from this incurable virus.
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Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) – Recommended for all kittens and cats who go outdoors or live with other cats. FeLV compromises the immune system and can lead to serious illnesses like cancer or anemia.
Unlike dogs, cats may receive their feline rabies vaccine as either a one-year or three-year dose, depending on local laws and product used. It’s important not to miss these appointments, even indoor cats can be exposed to viruses carried on shoes, clothing, or through open windows.
What to Expect When It Comes to Vaccination Costs in Kelowna
One of the most common questions pet parents ask is: How much do vaccinations cost? While pricing can vary depending on your pet’s needs and the frequency of visits, here are some general guidelines:
- Dog vaccinations: $25–$80 per vaccine depending on type
- Annual dog vaccinations package: Often bundled for better value
- Cat vaccinations: $20–$60 per shot
- Cat vaccination cost (full schedule): Expect $100–$180 for a kitten’s first year
Lakecity Animal Hospital offers transparent pricing and options to bundle vaccines for savings. As a trusted Kelowna veterinary hospital, they’re proud to serve families from Glenrosa to Gellatly and beyond, offering compassionate, cost-effective care.
Top Places in Kelowna to Get Your Pet Vaccinated
With so many Kelowna veterinary clinics to choose from, how do you know where to go? Here’s why Lakecity Animal Hospital is a top choice for vaccinations in the Okanagan:
- Conveniently located for families in Kelowna and Westbank
- Welcoming environment for both cats and dogs
- Staffed by experienced animal vet professionals
- Offers comprehensive wellness and vaccination plans
- Trusted by pet parents looking for a Westbank animal hospital
Whether you’re looking for a vet near the lake or a full-service Kelowna vet hospital, Lakecity offers the blend of care and compassion your pets deserve.
The Role of Regular Vet Visits Beyond Just Vaccines
While vaccines are essential, they’re just one part of your pet’s wellness journey. Annual wellness exams help detect issues early, provide dietary and behavioural guidance, and allow your vet to update your pet’s cat vaccination schedule or dog vaccination schedule as needed. Bonus: Combining your pet’s vaccines with their wellness exam saves you time and helps your vet spot issues early.
Final Woof (and Meow): Book Your Pet’s Vaccines Today
Still wondering where to start? Here’s your action plan:
- Check your pet’s current vaccine records
- Schedule a consultation with Lakecity Animal Hospital
- Follow your custom cat vaccination schedule or dog vaccination schedule
- Set up annual reminders (they’ll help with that too!)
From rabies vaccine cats to annual dog vaccinations, Lakecity Animal Hospital is the Kelowna veterinary hospital that pet parents across the Okanagan trust. Whether you’re looking for a reliable cat clinic, a caring dog clinic, or personalized advice on your pet’s cat vaccination schedule or dog vaccination schedule, our experienced team is here to help. Book your appointment online or call us today to speak with a member of our team.