Why Vaccines Matter
Vaccines are one of the simplest tools we have. They teach your pet’s immune system to recognize serious diseases, some of them fatal, before your pet ever runs into them. Parvovirus, distemper, rabies, and feline panleukopenia are far harder and more expensive to treat once a pet is sick. Some have no cure.
Vaccines protect more than your own pet. Rabies and parvovirus spread easily between unvaccinated animals, so every vaccinated dog and cat makes the neighborhood safer, whether you live in Hazel Park, Ferndale, or right here in Madison Heights.
Core Vaccines We Recommend
Core vaccines protect against diseases any dog or cat could run into. Our veterinarians follow the current AAHA canine and feline vaccination guidance, then look at your pet’s health and vaccine history before recommending a plan.
Core Vaccines for Dogs
- Rabies
- Distemper
- Parvovirus
- Adenovirus (Canine Hepatitis)
- Leptospirosis
Core Vaccines for Cats
- Rabies
- Feline Herpesvirus
- Calicivirus
- Panleukopenia
- Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) for cats younger than one year
Lifestyle Vaccines Based on Risk
Not every pet needs every vaccine. Lifestyle vaccines depend on how your pet lives: where they spend time, whether they’re around other animals, if they board or see a groomer, and which diseases are common in our area. We’ll go over your pet’s routine at the exam and decide together which ones make sense.
Additional Vaccines for Dogs
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough): for dogs who board, visit a groomer, or go to daycare
- Lyme Disease: for dogs who spend time where ticks are common
- Canine Influenza: for dogs in daycare, boarding, or other group settings
Additional Vaccines for Cats
- Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) for adult cats with an exposure risk, based on their lifestyle and contact with other cats
Vaccine Schedules by Life Stage
Puppies and Kittens
Puppies and kittens need a series of vaccines, not a single visit, because antibodies from their mother can block the early doses. We space the visits a few weeks apart until your pet’s immune system can respond on its own, usually around 16 weeks old.
Adult Pets
After the first series, booster timing depends on the vaccine, the product we use, and your pet’s health and exposure. Some vaccines are yearly. Others last longer. We’ll go over the records with you and tell you what’s due.
Senior Pets
Older pets still need protection. We look at their overall health and any chronic conditions before deciding which vaccines to give and when.
What to Expect at a Vaccine Visit
Every vaccine visit includes a quick health check. Your veterinarian examines your pet first to make sure they’re well enough to be vaccinated, asks about any changes at home, and answers your questions about what’s being given. A little soreness where the shot went in, or some sleepiness afterward, is normal. If you see swelling, vomiting, a puffy face, or anything else unusual, call us right away.
Trusted Preventive Care for Over 50 Years
Madison Veterinary Hospital is AAHA accredited and has been caring for pets in Madison Heights since 1970. Bring any past vaccine records to your appointment so we can see what your pet has had and plan what comes next.
