Dog Vaccinations

 

At Vet in the City, we believe vaccination should be thoughtful, targeted, and tailored to your dog’s individual lifestyle.

No owner wants their dog to suffer from an infectious disease, and vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to provide long-term protection. However, not every vaccine needs to be given annually. Our approach is to administer only those vaccines required to maintain reliable immunity, avoiding unnecessary intervention while ensuring your dog remains fully protected.

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We use modern, evidence-based vaccines that provide up to three years’ protection against Parvovirus, Canine Hepatitis (Adenovirus), and Distemper. These are core diseases that can be severe or even life-threatening, making consistent immunity essential.

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Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can affect both dogs and humans, requires annual vaccination. We use an updated vaccine that protects against all four strains, offering broader coverage—particularly important for dogs who travel, explore rural environments, or come into contact with wildlife.

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We also recommend annual protection against Kennel Cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection. Despite its name, kennel cough is not limited to kennels; it spreads wherever dogs are in close contact, including daycare, grooming salons, training classes, and public spaces. Transmission occurs through coughing, sneezing, and nose-to-nose contact. The intranasal vaccine we use mirrors this natural route of infection, helping to stimulate strong local immunity at the point of entry.

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Rabies Vaccination (For Travel)

 

If you are travelling abroad with your dog, a rabies vaccination is a legal requirement for entry into most countries.

The rabies vaccine is generally valid for three years, although this can vary depending on the product used and the specific requirements of your destination. It must also be administered in accordance with pet travel regulations before official travel documentation can be issued.

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We will guide you through the correct timing and requirements to ensure your pet is fully compliant and protected before travel.

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Cat Vaccinations

 

Cats are highly independent by nature, but their exposure to infectious disease is often underestimated. Vaccination remains a vital part of preventative healthcare—whether your cat lives indoors, ventures outside, or falls somewhere in between.

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Despite this, vaccination rates remain worryingly low. Research shows that approximately 72% of cats in the UK are not vaccinated. In dogs, this figure is around 42%. This leaves a significant number of pets vulnerable to preventable disease, many of which can be severe or life-threatening.

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At Vet in the City, we take a calm, considered approach to feline vaccination, ensuring protection is appropriate, effective, and not over-medicalised.

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Core Feline Vaccines

 

Most cats are protected with a combined vaccine (commonly referred to as FVRCP), which covers:

• Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) – a major cause of cat flu, leading to sneezing, conjunctivitis, and long-term respiratory issues

• Feline Calicivirus (FCV) – another key contributor to cat flu, often associated with oral ulcers and respiratory disease

• Feline Panleukopenia (FPV) – also known as feline infectious enteritis, a highly contagious and often severe gastrointestinal disease

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Vaccination Schedule

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• Kitten course: Typically started from 8–9 weeks of age, with a second dose 3–4 weeks later

• First booster: Given at around 1 year of age

• Ongoing boosters: Core vaccines are usually repeated every 3 years, depending on risk and lifestyle

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Additional Protection: Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV)

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​For cats at higher risk—particularly those who go outdoors or live with other cats—vaccination against Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) is strongly recommended. This is typically given during the kitten course, followed by annual boosters where ongoing risk remains.

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We are here to support you

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We understand that keeping track of vaccinations—and knowing which ones are appropriate for your pet—can sometimes feel confusing. That’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way and answer any questions you may have.

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Our Pet Health Plans include annual vaccinations, helping you keep your pet fully protected in a simple, convenient, and cost-effective way.