Vaccinations: Protecting Against Serious Disease
Vaccinations protect your pet from potentially fatal diseases. Eastex Veterinary Clinic provides core and lifestyle vaccines recommended based on your pet’s age, health, and risk factors.
Core Vaccines
Dogs: Rabies, distemper, parvovirus. Recommended for all dogs. Cats: Rabies, feline distemper, feline herpesvirus, calicivirus. Essential for all cats.
Lifestyle Vaccines
Recommended based on lifestyle and exposure risk. Dogs: Bordetella, leptospirosis, Lyme disease. Cats: Feline leukemia, feline immunodeficiency virus.
Vaccination Schedule
Puppies/Kittens: Series at 6-8, 9-11, 12-16 weeks, then annual boosters first year. Adults: Rabies and distemper boosters every 3 years. Other vaccines annually or as recommended.
Vaccine Safety
Vaccines are safe with rare, minor side effects (soreness at injection site). Serious reactions are extremely rare. Benefits of protection far outweigh minimal risks.
Vaccination FAQs
Which vaccines does my pet need?
Core vaccines everyone needs. Lifestyle vaccines depend on exposure risk. We recommend based on your situation.
Can vaccines cause disease?
No, vaccines are inactivated or modified pathogens that can’t cause disease. They train immune system.
Are vaccines safe?
Yes, very safe. Minor side effects possible. Serious reactions extremely rare. Benefits far outweigh risks.
Do vaccines last forever?
No, immunity fades. Booster shots maintain protection. Rabies/distemper boosters every 3 years. Others annually.
Can I skip vaccines if my pet is indoors?
Indoor pets still need core vaccines. Rabies recommended by law. Escape from home possible.
What age do puppies/kittens start vaccines?
First vaccine: 6-8 weeks. Series continues until 16 weeks, then annual boosters.
How much do vaccines cost?
Varies by vaccine. Call (281) 446-7148 for pricing.