Core & Lifestyle Vaccines for Pets | Sandy Paws Animal Hospital
Vaccines are one of the most effective tools in veterinary medicine for preventing serious illness in pets. At Sandy Paws Animal Hospital, we believe in personalized care—including custom vaccine schedules based on your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors.
Let’s take a closer look at why vaccines are important, and which ones your pet may need.
Why Vaccinate Your Pet?
Vaccines protect pets from contagious, sometimes fatal diseases. They also help protect other animals in your community, including those who may not be able to be vaccinated due to age or illness.
Diseases like parvo, distemper, and rabies are not only dangerous but often require expensive treatment. Vaccinating is far safer—and more affordable—than treating the disease itself.
Core vs. Lifestyle (Non-Core) Vaccines
We divide vaccines into two categories:
- Core Vaccines – Recommended for all pets regardless of lifestyle.
- Lifestyle Vaccines – Given based on the pet’s exposure risk (e.g., boarding, hiking, travel, etc.).
Core Vaccines for Dogs:
- Rabies – Required by law; prevents a deadly virus that can affect humans.
- DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus) – A combination vaccine protecting against multiple severe illnesses.
Lifestyle Vaccines for Dogs:
- Bordetella – Protects against kennel cough, common in boarding facilities.
- Leptospirosis – Bacterial infection from contaminated water or soil.
- Lyme Disease – Common in areas with ticks.
Core Vaccines for Cats:
- Rabies – Legally required and vital for safety.
- FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia) – A critical combination vaccine.
Lifestyle Vaccines for Cats:
- Feline Leukemia (FeLV) – Recommended for outdoor or multi-cat households.
Vaccination Timing and Boosters
Most puppies and kittens begin their vaccinations between 6–8 weeks of age, with boosters every few weeks until they’re around 16 weeks old. Adult pets receive booster shots annually or every 3 years, depending on the vaccine.
We’ll help you build a schedule and keep you on track with reminders so your pet is always protected.
Side Effects and Safety
Most pets handle vaccines just fine, but mild side effects like soreness, sleepiness, or reduced appetite can happen for a day or two. Severe reactions are rare—and our team monitors closely to make sure your pet stays safe.
Protect Your Pet, Protect Your Community
Vaccinations are a simple step with powerful results. Whether you're a new pet parent or just need to get back on track, Sandy Paws Animal Hospital is here to help.
Schedule your pet’s vaccination appointment today at (904) 278-0600 or visit us at 550 Wells Road, Suite 17, Orange Park, FL 32073 and give them the protection they need to live their best life.
