Vaccinations in Sidney

Why Are Pet Vaccinations Important?

Vaccinations play a critical role in protecting your pet from contagious diseases that can spread rapidly and cause severe illness or death. They also protect other pets and people by reducing the risk of transmission, making them essential for public health. Regular vaccinations are one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways to ensure your pet lives a long and healthy life.

Key Benefits of Vaccinating Your Pet:

• Prevents life-threatening diseases like rabies, parvovirus, and feline leukemia
• Protects young animals as their immune systems develop
• Reduces the risk of disease transmission between animals and humans (zoonotic diseases)
• Saves on costly treatments for preventable illnesses
• Ensures compliance with local regulations and travel requirements

Core Vaccines for Dogs and Cats

At Garry Oak Veterinary Hospital, we offer both core vaccines—essential for all pets—and non-core vaccines, recommended based on your pet’s unique lifestyle.

Core Vaccines for Dogs:

1. Rabies: A fatal virus that affects the brain and nervous system, transmissible to humans. This vaccine is legally required in most regions.
2. Distemper: A highly contagious viral disease that affects the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems.
3. Parvovirus: A severe, often fatal disease causing vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, especially in puppies.
4. Adenovirus (Hepatitis): A virus that affects the liver and can lead to severe illness.
5. Parainfluenza: A respiratory virus that contributes to kennel cough.

Core Vaccines for Cats:

1. Rabies: Prevents a fatal viral disease transmissible to humans.
2. Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper): A highly contagious viral infection that affects the digestive and immune systems.
3. Feline Calicivirus: Causes upper respiratory infections, oral ulcers, and lameness.
4. Feline Herpesvirus (Rhinotracheitis): A major cause of upper respiratory infections in cats.

Non-Core Vaccines Based on Your Pet’s Lifestyle

Non-core vaccines are recommended based on factors such as your pet’s exposure to other animals, outdoor access, and travel habits. During your pet’s annual wellness visit, our veterinarians will help determine which vaccines are necessary.

Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs:

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Recommended for dogs that socialize, attend daycare, or stay at boarding facilities.
• Leptospirosis: Protects against a bacterial infection that can spread through water, soil, and wildlife.
• Lyme Disease: Essential for dogs in tick-prone areas or those who hike, camp, or spend time outdoors.
• Canine Influenza (Dog Flu): For dogs with high exposure to other pets, especially during boarding or competitions.

Non-Core Vaccines for Cats:

• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): Recommended for outdoor cats or cats in multi-cat households. FeLV is a leading cause of immune suppression and cancer in cats.
• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): Protects against a virus that weakens a cat’s immune system.

Vaccination Schedule for Puppies and Kittens

Young pets are especially vulnerable to disease, as their immune systems are still developing. A series of vaccines during their first few months is critical for building immunity.

Puppy Vaccination Schedule:

• 6-8 weeks: First round of DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
• 10-12 weeks: Second DHPP + optional Bordetella and Leptospirosis
• 14-16 weeks: Final DHPP + Rabies + other lifestyle-dependent vaccines
• Annual Boosters: To maintain immunity

Kitten Vaccination Schedule:

• 6-8 weeks: First FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
• 10-12 weeks: Second FVRCP + optional FeLV
• 14-16 weeks: Final FVRCP + Rabies
• Annual Boosters: To maintain immunity

Are Vaccines Safe for Pets?

Yes, vaccines are rigorously tested for safety and efficacy. Side effects are rare, but mild symptoms such as slight lethargy or tenderness at the injection site may occur. Our team takes every precaution to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety during the vaccination process. If you have any concerns about vaccine reactions, we are always here to answer questions and provide support.

Why Choose Garry Oak Veterinary Hospital for Pet Vaccinations?

At Garry Oak Veterinary Hospital, we prioritize your pet’s health through personalized vaccination plans tailored to their needs. Our experienced team, led by Dr. Dhawala Abeywickrama, combines compassionate care with advanced veterinary expertise to ensure your pets stay protected.

Key Benefits of Choosing Us:

• Comprehensive wellness exams to assess overall health
• Personalized vaccine protocols based on your pet’s age and lifestyle
• Experienced veterinary team dedicated to your pet’s well-being
• Convenient location at 9837 Seventh St, Sidney, BC V8L 4B1
• Clear communication and education on vaccine benefits and schedules

Schedule Your Pet’s Vaccination Today

Vaccinations are a critical part of your pet’s preventive care. Protect your furry friend and give them the healthy life they deserve with expert vaccination services at Garry Oak Veterinary Hospital. Our friendly team is ready to answer your questions, create a personalized plan for your pet, and provide a calm, stress-free experience.

📍 Address: 9837 Seventh St, Sidney, BC V8L 4B1

📞 Phone: (250) 656-3955

⏰ Hours: Please call to book your appointment.

Currently the American Animal Health Association (AAHA) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) publish vaccination guideline which we use use to help develop our protocols.

These guidelines may be viewed at the following websites.

https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/life-stage-feline-2021/vaccinations/
https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/life-stage-canine-2019/vaccinations/