Vaccinations for your pet are a very important part of keeping them healthy. They protect your furry friend from contagious diseases that can be very harmful or even deadly. Not only do vaccines help your pet build immunity to these terrible diseases, vaccinating your pet also helps to protect other people and animals.
There are two classifications of vaccinations: core and non-core.
Core vaccinations are essential.
Non-core vaccinations are only necessary on a case-by-case basis.
Let’s dive deeper.
Every Pet Needs Their Core Vaccinations
Core vaccinations are important for ALL pets, not just those in specific areas of the country. These vaccinations prevent diseases that are highly contagious, spread quickly, can be deadly, and may even spread to humans.
Some states, Arizona included, often have legal requirements for vaccinations. The most common example of a legal requirement is the rabies vaccination, which is required in nearly 40 different states.
Core vaccinations prevent the most deadly and contagious diseases. By refusing core vaccinations for your pet, you are not only putting their health at risk, but also the health of the other pets and people in the household.
Core Vaccinations for Dogs
- Rabies (required by the state)
- Distemper
- Hepatitis
- Parvovirus
- Parainfluenza
- Leptospirosis
Core Vaccinations for Cats
- Rabies (required by the state)
- Feline distemper
- Feline Calicivirus
- Rhinotracheitis
Some Pet Vaccinations Are Optional
Non-core vaccinations are vaccinations that are helpful to only some pets. Typically, these vaccines are for diseases that are not as widespread, are easily treated in healthy pets, or that don’t affect your particular pet. A good example is Lyme disease, which is not very common in Arizona, but a risk for pets who spend significant time outdoors.
Your vet might recommend an optional vaccine based on:
- Your pet’s lifestyle
- The age of your pet
- Your pet’s health history
- Your travel plans
Common Non-core Vaccinations for Dogs
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Recommended for dogs who frequent dog parks, boarding facilities, doggy-daycare, or grooming salons. Some places even require it to board or care for your dog.
- Canine Influenza: Like kennel cough, this vaccination is recommended for dogs who frequently interact with other dogs.
- Lyme Disease: A good idea for dogs who spend a significant amount of time in nature. This can include frequent camping trips, hikes, dogs who hop fences, or if you are planning to travel with your dog to other parts of the country.
Common Non-core Vaccinations for Cats
- Feline Leukemia Virus: Recommended for cats who live in multi-cat households, are outside often, or are boarded with other cats.
- Feline Immunodeficiency Virus: Recommended for cats who might get in fights with other cats, especially if they are around stray cats.
- Bortetella Brochiseptica: Easily spread through contact with other cats, this vaccination is recommended for cats living in multi-cat households.
- Lyme Disease: Best for outdoor cats, especially those who spend time in wooded areas.
Expert Veterinary Care in Gilbert, Arizona
Here at East Valley Animal Hospital, we understand the importance of your pet’s continued health. That is why we work hard to ensure your pet gets the best care possible. Every preventive care appointment has time built in for discussions about what is best for your pet. If you have any questions about which vaccinations your pet needs, we’re here to help.
Your pet’s health matters. Make an appointment today with the best veterinary team in Gilbert.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/21/25). Photo by Raghavendra V. Konkathi on Unsplash