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Keeping your pet healthy starts with prevention, and vaccinations play a vital role in protecting dogs and cats from serious, sometimes life-threatening diseases. If you’re a pet owner in Calgary, understanding the correct vaccination schedule helps ensure your pet stays protected year-round.
At Sanctuary Veterinary Hospital in Calgary, we help pet owners make informed decisions with customized vaccination plans based on age, lifestyle, and health history.
Why Pet Vaccinations Are Essential in Calgary
Calgary’s climate, wildlife exposure, and social pet environment increase the risk of infectious diseases such as rabies, parvovirus, and feline leukemia. Regular vaccinations:
Protect your pet from preventable diseases
Reduce disease spread among pets
Are required for boarding, grooming, and travel
Support long-term health and immunity
Vaccinating on time is especially important for puppies, kittens, and senior pets with weaker immune systems.
Core Vaccines for Dogs and Cats
Core Dog Vaccines
These are recommended for all dogs in Calgary:
Rabies
Distemper
Parvovirus
Adenovirus (Hepatitis)
Core Cat Vaccines
Essential vaccines for cats include:
Rabies
Feline Panleukopenia
Feline Herpesvirus
Feline Calicivirus
Our veterinary team evaluates each pet to ensure vaccines are given safely and appropriately.
Puppy & Kitten Vaccination Timeline
Puppy Vaccination Schedule
6–8 weeks: First DHPP vaccine
10–12 weeks: Booster DHPP
14–16 weeks: Final DHPP + Rabies
12 months: Booster vaccines
Kitten Vaccination Schedule
6–8 weeks: First FVRCP vaccine
10–12 weeks: Booster FVRCP
14–16 weeks: Final FVRCP + Rabies
12 months: Booster vaccines
Learn more about early-life care in our Puppy & Kitten Care guide.
Adult Pet Vaccination Schedule
Adult dogs and cats typically need:
Annual wellness exams
Rabies boosters (as required by law)
Core vaccine boosters every 1–3 years
Vaccination needs may vary depending on health conditions, age, and exposure risks.
Lifestyle-Based & Optional Vaccines
Some pets may require additional protection:
Bordetella (kennel cough)
Leptospirosis
Lyme disease
Feline leukemia (FeLV)
These vaccines are often recommended for pets that:
Visit dog parks or boarding facilities
Travel frequently
Spend time outdoors
Your vet will help determine which vaccines are necessary.
What Happens During a Vaccination Visit
A vaccination appointment usually includes:
If your pet shows symptoms requiring further evaluation, diagnostics like X-rays or Ultra sounds may be recommended.
Common Side Effects & Vaccine Safety
Most pets experience mild side effects such as:
Temporary soreness
Mild fatigue
Slight swelling at injection site
Severe reactions are rare. Always contact your vet if you notice vomiting, swelling of the face, or breathing difficulty.
When to Delay or Avoid Vaccination
Vaccination may be postponed if your pet:
Is ill or recovering from surgery
Has a history of severe vaccine reactions
Requires additional health screening
Your veterinarian will guide you on the safest approach.
Why Choose Sanctuary Veterinary Hospital in Calgary
Pet owners trust Sanctuary Veterinary Hospital because we offer:
Experienced veterinarians and caring staff
Customized vaccination schedules
Comprehensive wellness and emergency services
A compassionate, fear-free environment
Meet our veterinary team and learn how we support your pet’s lifelong health.
Book Your Pet’s Vaccination Appointment
Protect your pet today with a professional vaccination plan.
📞 Contact us or to keep your pet healthy and protected in every stage of life.
Contact us or book an appointment online in Calgary today to keep your dog or cat protected year-round.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Vaccinations in Calgary
How often should pets be vaccinated in Calgary?
Most pets need a series of vaccines during their first year of life, followed by booster shots every 1 to 3 years depending on the vaccine type, lifestyle, and health status. Your veterinarian will recommend a schedule that follows Alberta regulations and your pet’s individual needs.
Are pet vaccinations mandatory in Alberta?
Rabies vaccination is strongly recommended and may be required for travel, boarding, grooming, or daycare facilities in Alberta. Other core vaccines are not legally mandatory but are highly recommended to protect your pet from serious and preventable diseases.
Can indoor pets skip vaccinations?
Even indoor pets should be vaccinated. Viruses and bacteria can be brought indoors on shoes, clothing, or through contact with other animals. Indoor pets are still at risk and benefit from routine vaccinations to stay protected.
Are pet vaccines safe?
Yes, pet vaccines are very safe. Most pets experience little to no side effects. Mild reactions such as temporary soreness or low energy may occur and usually resolve within 24–48 hours. Serious reactions are rare, and your veterinarian will monitor your pet closely.
What should I do if my pet has a reaction to a vaccine?
If you notice symptoms such as facial swelling, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or extreme lethargy after vaccination, contact your veterinary clinic immediately. Mild side effects are normal, but severe reactions require prompt medical attention.
How do I book a vaccination appointment in Calgary?
You can book a vaccination appointment by contacting your veterinary clinic directly or booking online. A routine wellness exam is usually done during the visit to ensure your pet is healthy before vaccination.