Vaccines are one of the most important tools we have in preventive veterinary medicine. They prepare your pet’s immune system to recognize and fight off specific diseases before those illnesses have a chance to cause harm.

In the Vestavia Hills area, pets may be exposed to a variety of health threats, including rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and feline leukemia. Some of these diseases are carried by wildlife, while others can spread through contact with other pets. Vaccinating your dog or cat greatly reduces the risk of infection and helps prevent outbreaks in our local pet community.

When you vaccinate your pet, you are protecting more than just their health. You are also contributing to the well-being of other pets, wildlife, and people in our area.

At Parkside Pet Hospital, we divide vaccines into two main categories: core and non-core.

Core vaccines are recommended for all pets because they protect against diseases that are either widespread, severe, or pose a risk to humans. For dogs, these include Rabies, Leptospirosis, Distemper, Parvovirus, and Adenovirus. For cats, core vaccines include Rabies, Panleukopenia, Calicivirus, and Herpesvirus.

Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle and risk of exposure. Examples include Bordetella, Lyme disease, and Feline Leukemia. These may be important if your pet spends time outdoors, boards at a kennel, visits the groomer, or travels to certain areas.

Our veterinarians work with you to create a vaccination plan that covers the right diseases for your pet without unnecessary treatments.

Puppies and kittens require a series of veterinary vaccinations starting at 6 to 8 weeks of age. These shots are spaced every 3 to 4 weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. This schedule allows their immune system to build strong, lasting protection.

Adult pets need booster shots to maintain immunity. The frequency of these boosters depends on the type of vaccine. Some may be given annually, while others provide protection for up to three years.

At Parkside Pet Hospital, we keep detailed medical records and send reminders when it is time for your pet’s next vaccine, making it simple to stay on schedule.

Every pet is unique, and their vaccination needs should be as well. Our process begins with a full wellness exam to assess your pet’s overall health. We review their age, medical history, travel patterns, and exposure risks.

For example, a dog that frequently visits dog parks may need different protection than an indoor cat. By tailoring your pet’s vaccine plan, we ensure they get the benefits of immunity while avoiding unnecessary medications.

Most adult pets receive boosters every one to three years, depending on the vaccine type and their lifestyle. Core vaccines like rabies are required by law and have strict renewal timelines. Non-core vaccines are given based on ongoing risk factors.

Following the latest guidelines from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), we provide only what your pet needs to remain healthy and fully protected.

We recommend starting vaccinations for puppies and kittens at 6 to 8 weeks of age. This early start is important because young animals are especially vulnerable to infections.

After the first dose, your pet will return for additional shots every 3 to 4 weeks until the full series is complete. This process ensures strong, lasting immunity during their most active and curious life stage.

Yes. The state of Alabama requires all dogs, cats, and ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies. This is not only for the safety of your pet but also for public health. Rabies is a fatal disease that can be transmitted to humans, so prevention is essential.

At Parkside Pet Hospital, we provide rabies vaccinations that meet all legal requirements and issue official certificates for your records.

Even pets that live indoors full-time can be exposed to disease. Viruses can be carried inside on clothing or shoes, and curious pets sometimes escape or interact with visiting animals. In addition, Alabama law requires rabies vaccinations for all dogs and cats, regardless of lifestyle.

Our veterinarians can help determine which vaccines are important for your indoor pet’s protection.

Yes. Combining vaccinations with other preventive services is an efficient way to care for your pet. During the same appointment, we can perform a full wellness exam, run parasite screening, and complete annual lab work.

This approach saves you time, reduces stress for your pet, and allows us to catch any early signs of illness during their visit.

When you bring your pet to Parkside Pet Hospital for vaccinations, you can expect:

• A warm welcome from our friendly team
• A gentle, low-stress handling approach
• A complete physical exam before any vaccines are given
• A discussion of recommended vaccines based on your pet’s health and lifestyle
• Quick, comfortable vaccine administration
• Clear aftercare instructions so you know what to watch for at home

We understand that a trip to the vet can be stressful for some pets. That is why our clinic is designed with their comfort in mind. Softly lit kennels, heated surfaces, and a calm environment help pets feel secure.

Our doctors and staff take time to build trust with your pet, using gentle techniques and positive reinforcement to make each visit a better experience. We also create personalized veterinary treatment plans so that every aspect of your pet’s care, from vaccinations to follow-up visits, is tailored to their specific needs and comfort level.