August is National Pet Immunization Awareness Month

Written By Cari Zbel

Just like us, our pets need to stay up to date on their vaccinations to stay healthy and protected. Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to safeguard your pet from serious and sometimes deadly diseases, while also preventing the spread of illness in the pet community.

Keeping your furry family members on a regular vaccination schedule is key to giving them a long, happy, and healthy life.

Why Vaccinate?

Vaccines provide essential protection against many common pet illnesses. Puppies and kittens should receive their first vaccines between 6 to 8 weeks of age, followed by booster shots every 4 weeks until they are 20 weeks old. It’s important to complete the entire series of vaccinations! Missing boosters can leave your pet vulnerable to infection.

Core Vaccines for Dogs:

  • Rabies

  • DA2PP (protects against Canine Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza)

  • Leptospirosis

  • Bordetella (kennel cough)

  • Lyme disease

Core Vaccines for Cats:

  • Rabies

  • FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)

  • Feline Leukemia

  • Feline Bordetella

Even if your pet spends most of their time indoors, vaccinations are still important. Some diseases are airborne and can enter through an open window. Pets can also slip out unexpectedly, putting them at risk of exposure.

If you visit boarding facilities, dog parks, or grooming salons, vaccines are especially critical. These are higher-risk environments, and it’s best to make sure your pet is protected before visiting. Keep in mind that some vaccines take several days or weeks to become fully effective. Check with your veterinarian to be sure.

Stay on Schedule

Annual wellness exams are a great time to review your pet’s vaccination status. Keeping records current and scheduling regular checkups can help catch health issues early and ensure your pet stays protected.

Let HART help! 

At our Bredel Veterinary Clinic, our compassionate team recommends a yearly nose-to-tail wellness exam that includes vaccines, dental checks, and age-specific care, so your pet can thrive at every stage of life.

Wellness exams are just $45, and every visit supports our mission to rescue and rehome homeless pets, provide affordable spay/neuter services, and improve animal welfare in Western Maryland and beyond! 

Call 301.387.7729 to schedule your pet’s appointment today!

Together, we can give your pet a healthier future and help even more animals in need.

Cari Zbel
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Home Sweet Home: Keeping Your Pets Safe this Summer