What Ontario Pet Owners Must Know

Vaccinations are essential to protecting your pet from preventable diseases. Keeping your pets protected starts with the right vaccine schedule. At Highbury North Pet Hospital in London, Ontario, we help pet owners stay on track with vaccination schedules for dogs and cats tailored to your furry friend’s specific needs.

In this blog from a London, ON veterinarian, we’ll cover the typical vaccination schedules for dogs and cats in Ontario, including core vs. non-core vaccines, when boosters are needed, and why timely vaccination is key to preventative pet care.

What Vaccines Does Your Pet Need in Ontario?

Vaccinations are generally divided into core and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are essential for all pets, while non-core vaccines are recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle or local disease risks.

For dogs:

• Core vaccines: Rabies, Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus
  
• Non-core vaccines: Bordetella (kennel cough), Lyme, Leptospirosis
  

For cats:

• Core vaccines: Rabies, Panleukopenia, Calicivirus, Herpesvirus, Feline Leukemia,
  
• Non-core vaccines: Chlamydia
  

A veterinarian will recommend a vaccination plan during your pet’s wellness exam. based on age, health status, and exposure risks. Location may also factor in. For instance, when it comes to pet vaccinations, Ontario residents in rural areas may be advised to include the Lepto vaccine for dogs.

When Should Puppies and Kittens Be Vaccinated?

Puppies and kittens need a series of vaccinations during their first few months of life to build immunity. While cat and dog vaccine timing may vary a bit from pet to pet, they generally fall under some standard guidelines. When it comes to pet vaccinations, Ontario residents may expect veterinarians to recommend something similar to these typical timelines:

• First vaccines: 6–8 weeks
  
• Boosters: Every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks
  
• Rabies: Typically at 12–16 weeks, depending on local laws
  

Learn more about puppy and kitten vaccine guidelines from the CVMA. Missing early boosters may leave young pets vulnerable, so it’s important to stick to the schedule. Ask your North London, ON vet for more information on cat and dog vaccine timing and core and non-core vaccines. 

How Often Do Adult Pets Need Vaccines?

After the initial series, adult pets need periodic boosters to maintain protection. Most core vaccines are boosted every 1 to 3 years. However, it varies depending on the vaccine type and your pet’s medical history. 

For example:

• Rabies: Every 1–3 years, per provincial regulation
  
• Distemper combo (dogs): Every 1–3 years
  
• FVRCP combo (cats): Every 1–3 years
  

Your vet may recommend annual boosters for certain non-core vaccines, especially if your pet visits dog parks, kennels, or travels frequently. As with other aspects of pet care, such as diet, exercise needs, and dental care. vaccines are a crucial part of a good pet care regimen. 

Can Vaccines Cause Side Effects in Pets?

Vaccines are generally very safe, but mild side effects like soreness or fatigue can occur. In rare cases, pets may experience allergic reactions. Always monitor your pet for a few hours after vaccination and contact your veterinarian if you notice:

• Swelling at the injection site
  
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
  
• Difficulty breathing
  

You can read more here about vaccine safety for pets.

Does My Pet Need Non-Core Vaccines?

Bordetella is often recommended, and is required for dogs that visit kennels, daycares, or grooming salons. Another thing to consider with pet vaccinations? Ontario residents that live in more rural areas may want to consider non-core vaccines, such as Lepto, which is typically spread by wild animals, and thrives in wet areas. Ask your vet for more information. 

How Do I Keep Track of My Pet’s Vaccination Schedule?

Most veterinary clinics, including Highbury North Pet Hospital, provide a vaccine record and reminder system to keep your pet on track. Be sure to:

• Save your pet’s vaccine history card
  
• Schedule your next appointment before leaving the clinic
  
• Ask about email or text reminders
  

This ensures that your pet never misses a critical booster and remains protected all year round.

Stay Ahead of Preventable Disease with the Right Vaccine Plan

Understanding and following vaccination schedules for dogs and cats is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. Visit our Service Page to learn more about the services we offer and the type of pets we see.

Vaccines protect your pet, your family, and other animals in the community. Call today to schedule your pet’s vaccination and keep them healthy for life.

Make An Appointment At Our North London, ON Pet Clinic 

Are you looking for a great vet in the North London, ON area? Is your pet due for vaccines? Please do not hesitate to reach out to us for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. 

This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult your North London, ON veterinarian for the right medical advice or treatment plan to fit your pet’s needs.