Vaccinations & Health Checks

We recommend that all cats, dogs and rabbits are vaccinated to protect against illness from infectious diseases.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations usually start when the animals are young, at around 8-9 weeks old, this is followed by an initial booster 3-4 weeks later. Booster vaccinations are then required every 1-3 years, depending on the animal's requirements and the diseases covered.

Vaccinations are either injected under the skin or squirted up the animal's nose. Most animals do not even seem to notice the needle prickle.

All vaccines require the animal to form an immune response to the vaccine. All of our vaccines are very safe and there is minimal risk of reactions.

The diseases we vaccinate against have been divided into "Core" and "Recommended" vaccinations, based on the relative risks for each disease. All cats, dogs and rabbits should receive their "Core" vaccines, and the "Recommended" vaccines should be discussed with your veterinarian.

Taranaki Cats Should Be Vaccinated For:

Feline Panleucopaenia Virus, Feline Herpesvirus and Feline Calicivirus.

FIV (Cat AIDS) vaccines are recommended.

 

Taranaki Dogs Should Be Vaccinated For:

Distemper, Parvovirus and Infectious Hepatitis

Leptospirosis and Canine Cough (Kennel Cough) vaccines are recommended.

 

Taranaki Rabbits Should Be Vaccinated For:

Rabbit Calicivirus (Viral Haemorrhagic Disease)

 

 

Health Checks

Your animal’s vaccination visits are also a great opportunity for us to check over your pet and address any concerns that you may have.

We recommend that we examine each pet at least annually; one year is a long time in the life of a cat or dog! We will usually check their eyes, ears, mouth, listen to their heart and lungs, feel their lymph nodes, take their temperature if needed and assess their overall body condition.

Consultations can also be booked at any other time when you notice anything different with your animal that you would like us to assess.

 

If you have just acquired a new pet or are not sure of your animal’s vaccination status, please call us to discuss your needs. We would like to help you ensure that your animals stay healthy and free of preventable diseases.