Vaccinations are a safe and effective method to protect your pet from catching potentially fatal or debilitating diseases. Although side effects can occur, these are uncommon. These may be tiredness, fever, reduced appetite, and allergic reactions. If you do have concerns about vaccinations please talk to our staff. Below are a list of the common vaccinations we give to pets.

Dogs are vaccinated against Canine Parvovirus, Distemper and Canine Infectious Hepatitis, otherwise collectively known as a C3 vaccination. The first vaccination is given at 6-8 weeks, the second at 10-12 weeks, and then the third at 14-16 weeks of age. Adults dogs then have annual or triennial (3 yearly) booster vaccinations. If you have an unvaccinated older dog or have missed a vaccination booster in a few years, then two vaccinations a month apart should be given, followed by annual or triennial booster vaccinations.

Dogs should also be vaccinated against Bordertella and Parainfluenza, the cause of Canine Cough, also known as Kennel Cough. Puppies are vaccinated for Canine Cough at their second and/or third vaccinations, then annually.

Learn more about these dog diseases here.

Cats are vaccinated for Feline Parvovirus, Calicivirus and Herpesvirus (cat flu), collectively known as a F3 vaccination. Kittens should have three vaccinations. The first vaccination is at 6-8 weeks, the second at 10-12 weeks, and then the third at 16 weeks of age. Adults cats then have annual booster vaccinations. If you have an unvaccinated older cat or have missed a vaccination in a few years, then two vaccinations a month apart should be given, followed by annual booster vaccinations.

We also offer FIV (Feline AIDs) vaccination at Heritage Veterinary Clinic. FIV is transmitted through cat bites therefore we recommend them to any cat that is outdoors. Prevalence in Victoria is 14-22%. Vaccination for FIV is approximately 82% protective. The FIV vaccination protocol is three vaccinations 2-4 weeks apart, followed by annual boosters. If your cat is 6 months of age or older then an FIV test is required before vaccination begins. We also recommend that your cat is microchipped if FIV vaccination is done.

Learn more about these cat diseases here.

The only vaccination available for rabbits in Australia is Calicivirus. The recommended vaccination protocol for calicivirus is at 6 weeks of age and 10 weeks of age then 6 monthly boosters. Unvaccinated rabbits or rabbits who have not have a vaccination for more than 1 year should have two vaccinations a month apart then every 6 months.

Myxomatosis is the other life-threatening virus present in Australia. The vaccine for myxomatosis is not available in Australia due to concerns the vaccine will help protect wild rabbits.

Learn more about these rabbit diseases here.