When to vaccinate?

8-12 weeks is when puppies and kittens lose their immunity that they acquired from their mother's milk (maternal antibodies), therefore it is important to ensure their protection during this crucial window:

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• 1st dose: 6-8 weeks old

• 2nd dose: 10-12 weeks old

• 3rd dose: 14-16 weeks old

• Adult Annual boosters to maintain protection

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Fear-free approach

 

Vaccinations can be nerve-wrecking, especially if it is your fur baby’s first time visiting us. During the process, we will ensure a fear-free approach by providing lots of treats, pats and praises to make their experience as comfortable as possible.

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FAQ

 

Are annual boosters really necessary or can I vaccinate my animal every few years?

 

Dogs: It depends on the type of vaccines we are talking about. The core vaccines typically provide immunity for up to 3 years, so dogs may only require boosters for them every 3 years. However, the kennel cough vaccine that covers respiratory diseases provides immunity for only 12-18 months, so annual boosters are required in this case.

 

Cats: All of the cat vaccines provide immunity for only 12-18 months, so annual boosters are required.

 

 

My cat is indoors-only, do I still need to vaccinate it?

 

Yes. Even strictly indoor cats can be exposed to viruses. Infectious diseases can enter your home on your hands, shoes, or clothing. Additionally, indoor cats may occasionally need to visit a vet clinic or a boarding facility where the risk of exposure is higher.

 

Interestingly, because indoor cats aren't "naturally boosted" by encountering viruses in the wild, they may actually be more susceptible if they do run into a virus later in life.

 

 

My puppy/kitten got their last dose of core vaccines today. Does that mean they are fully immune now?

 

Not immediately. It takes time for the immune system to process the vaccine and build up protection. Furthermore, we must ensure that the antibodies they received from their mother’s milk (maternal antibodies) have worn off enough for the vaccine to work.

 

Current guidelines recommend that the final puppy or kitten dose be given at 14-16 weeks of age or older to ensure the vaccine is effective . Your pet is generally not considered "fully protected" until about 7 to 14 days after that final 14-16-week dose

 

 

Can I bring my puppy/kitten to the groomer’s after having their last dose of core vaccine?

 

It is best to wait. Because it takes 1–2 weeks for the immune system to fully respond to the final vaccine, your pet is still vulnerable to viruses that might be present in public spaces like grooming salons. To be safe, wait at least one to two weeks after the final 14-16-week vaccination before visiting the groomer.

 

 

When can I start bringing my puppy to the dog park/socialize with other dogs?

 

Socialisation is critical for a puppy's behavioural health, but it must be balanced against disease risk:

 

Early Socialisation: You can start "puppy preschool" or small playdates in clean, indoor environments about 7 days after their first vaccine (usually at 8 weeks old), provided all other dogs are healthy and vaccinated.

 

High-Risk Areas (Dog Parks): You should wait until 7–14 days after the final 14-16-week vaccine before going to public dog parks, beaches, or areas where many unknown dogs gather. These areas are much more likely to be contaminated with viruses like Parvovirus.

 

 

When is the FIV vaccine indicated?

 

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is primarily spread through deep bite wounds from infected cats. The vaccine is considered "non-core," meaning it is optional based on lifestyle. If your cat is an outdoors cat and will frequent high-risk areas (neighborhood with other cats around), it is recommended to have them protected against FIV in case they get into cat fights.