What Vaccines Are Essential for Dogs and Cats?

Start with a simple truth: prevention lets our pets live bigger, safer lives. We sat down with Dr. O’Hara of Abingdon Animal Medical Center to map out a clear vaccine plan for dogs and cats—what’s essential, what’s lifestyle-based, and how local risks shape smart choices. From the legal and public health reasons behind rabies to the day-to-day realities of parvo, kennel cough, and leptospirosis, we connect the headlines to the habits that matter at home, on the trail, and at the boarding desk.
You’ll hear why puppy and kitten booster series are timed the way they are, how parvo can put a young dog in the hospital for a week, and why that “goose honk” cough points to highly contagious Bordetella. We dig into lepto risks in wet climates, how urine-contaminated water and soil can infect dogs and people, and which multi-strain vaccines cover the most common threats. Even low-social pets face exposure through brief escapes, vet visits, neighbors’ dogs, or pathogens that hitch a ride on clothing—so we talk through realistic protection for couch potatoes and trailblazers alike.
We also clarify adult booster timing, when a twice-yearly Bordetella makes sense, and what normal post-vaccine reactions look like versus red flags that need a call to the clinic. Cat parents get a focused segment on upper respiratory viruses, why indoor cats still need core coverage, and how to keep multi-cat homes healthier. If you want a practical, region-aware vaccine roadmap without scare tactics or jargon, this conversation brings it all down to earth.
If this helped you plan your pet’s next checkup, tap follow, share with a fellow pet parent, and leave a quick review to help others find the show. Ready to book care? Text or call 276-628-9655 or visit MyAbingdonVet.com.

To learn more about Abingdon Animal Medical Center visit:
https://www.MyAbingdonVet.com
Abingdon Animal Medical Center
19586 Dennison Drive
Abingdon, VA 24211
276-628-9655