Vaccinations for Dogs and Cats

We'll keep your pet safe. New Layer Request Appointment A simple, solid green shape resembling a cloud on a black background evokes the tranquility often found in a veterinarian's calming presence.

Sometimes having a pet is like having children—it can seem like a never-ending job to keep them healthy and happy. Vaccinating your pet is a relatively inexpensive but essential way to protect his or her health. In addition to preventing many life-threatening illnesses, vaccinations can prevent diseases prevalent in wildlife and those that can be passed to humans. It’s important to administer vaccinations when pets are puppies and kittens because their young immune systems are still developing and need protection to stay healthy. Protect Love A large green rectangle on the left and a smaller one on the right, reminiscent of a veterinarian's soothing office colors, both set against a crisp white background. A small kitten and a golden Labrador puppy sit on the grass, facing each other under the vet's watchful eye. The sun shines brightly, highlighting their fur and creating a warm, playful scene.

While any medical treatment involves some degree of risk, in the case of vaccinations the benefits far outweigh any potential side effects. Adverse reactions are rare and usually mild and short-term when they do occur. At Madison Street Animal Hospital, we will tailor vaccinations to your pet’s lifestyle, and not based on what’s available in the market. Protect Love A large green rectangle on the left and a smaller one on the right, reminiscent of a veterinarian's soothing office colors, both set against a crisp white background. A gray and black Great Dane sits outdoors with a calm expression, wearing a black collar with a tag. The background shows blurred greenery.

Core vs. Non-Core Which vaccines should your pet have? “Core” vaccines are those recommended—and possibly mandated by law—for most pets. Core vaccines include:
  • Rabies (dogs and cats)
  • Distemper, Hepatitis, Adenovirus 2, Parvo and Parainfluenza (dogs)
  • Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (cats)
Other non-core, but highly suggested vaccinations for cats are FeLV to protect against feline leukemia.

For dogs, the Bordatella vaccine is recommended if they frequent dog parks, boarding kennels, or any place where they are socializing with other canines.
The Leptospirosis vaccine is recommended for dogs who come into proximity with farm animals or wildlife, or who drink from ponds, lakes, streams or rivers. A tabby cat with striking stripes is being held gently by a veterinarian's hands. The cat has bright, alert eyes and a slightly focused expression. The background is softly blurred, highlighting the cat's features as it enjoys this moment at the vet's.

It’s also important to note that even pets who live primarily indoors should be vaccinated, as they can still be exposed to disease. Your Madison Street veterinarian can advise you on which vaccinations are required or recommended for your pet based on age, health, and lifestyle. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at (206) 538-0890. Vaccine Protocol Green heart shapes of various sizes are scattered across a black background, creating a simple, abstract pattern reminiscent of a veterinarian's gentle touch. A veterinarian in maroon scrubs, wearing a face mask, gently holds a small puppy on an examination table in the clinic. The table is lined with medical supplies, and shelves filled with bottles are neatly arranged in the background.