Vaccinations are one of the most important ways to help pets live longer, healthier lives. At Wheatland Animal Hospital, protecting your pet is our top priority. We create customized vaccination schedules based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and risk factors - ensuring they get the protection they need without unnecessary vaccines.

 

Why Vaccinate Your Pet?

Vaccines protect against serious and sometimes fatal diseases in both dogs and cats. Many of these illnesses are highly contagious, difficult to treat, and can even spread to humans. 

 

Vaccinating your pet:

• Prevents dangerous diseases

• Reduces the spread of illness in the community

• Protects both pets and people in your household

 

Required by Law:

Rabies (Dogs & Cats)

A fatal viral disease that can infect all warm-blooded animals, including humans. Spread through bites from infected animals.

• Puppies receive their first rabies vaccine at 16 weeks, lasting 1 year.

• Boosters are given annually or every 3 years thereafter.

 

Core and Recommended Pet Vaccines:

Below is an overview of the vaccines we commonly recommend for dogs and cats.

 

FVRCP (Cats)

• FVR – Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis: A herpesvirus that causes severe upper respiratory disease in cats. Highly contagious through contact with infected animals or contaminated objects.

• C – Calicivirus: Another common, contagious upper respiratory infection in cats, spread in the same way as FVR.

• P – Panleukopenia: A potentially deadly virus, especially in kittens. Spread through direct contact or contaminated fluids. Can also be carried by wildlife like raccoons.

 

DHLPP (Dogs)

• D – Distemper: Highly contagious, affecting multiple organ systems in dogs, ferrets, and some wildlife. Spread via contact with contaminated objects.

• H – Canine Hepatitis: Viral disease impacting the liver, kidneys, eyes, and more. Spread through bodily secretions.

• L – Leptospirosis: Bacterial infection affecting kidneys, liver, and nervous system. Can be transmitted to humans.

• P – Parainfluenza: Causes coughing, nasal and eye discharge, vomiting, or diarrhea.

• P – Parvovirus: Highly contagious, spread through infected stool or contaminated environments. Extremely hardy and long-lasting in the environment.

 

Lifestyle-Based:

Bordetella (Dogs)

Also known as kennel cough, this bacterial infection spreads easily in environments where dogs interact. Causes coughing, nasal discharge, and eye discharge. Recommended for dogs who board, attend daycare, or visit grooming/training facilities.

 

Canine Influenza (Dogs)

A contagious respiratory virus spread through airborne particles or contaminated objects. Common in dogs who are boarded, groomed, or in group environments. Signs include cough, lethargy, fever, and nasal discharge.

 

Lyme Disease (Dogs)

Caused by bacteria transmitted by ticks. Most common in active dogs who spend time outdoors in wooded or grassy areas. Signs include fever, joint pain, and swelling; can progress to more serious conditions if untreated. Prevention includes tick control and vaccination for at-risk dogs.

 

Your Pet’s Personalized Vaccine Plan

At Wheatland Animal Hospital, we don’t believe in a “one-size-fits-all” vaccine schedule. Our veterinarians will review your pet’s age, medical history, and lifestyle to recommend the right vaccines at the right time - minimizing risks and maximizing protection.

 

Schedule Your Pet’s Vaccination Appointment 

Call Wheatland Animal Hospital at (630) 904-2020 to request an appointment today.