Frequently
Asked Questions

Core vaccines (recommended for all dogs):

• DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis/Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza): Protects against several highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases.
• Rabies: Required by law in most regions and protects against a fatal disease that can spread to humans.
• Leptospirosis: Protects against a bacterial disease spread by wildlife and water sources; can cause kidney and liver failure and can infect humans.

Non-core vaccines (recommended based on lifestyle/exposure):

• Bordetella (“kennel cough”): Recommended for dogs that are boarded, groomed, or visit dog parks.
• Canine Influenza: For dogs exposed to boarding/daycare environments or areas with outbreaks.
• Lyme disease: Recommended for dogs in tick-endemic regions or with outdoor exposure.

Typical puppy schedule (may vary slightly by clinic or region):

• 6–8 weeks: DHPP
• 10–12 weeks: DHPP booster ± Leptospirosis (if recommended)
• 14–16 weeks: DHPP final booster ± Leptospirosis
• 16 weeks or older: Rabies
• Optional vaccines: Bordetella, Influenza, Lyme (timing depends on risk)

Booster schedule:

• 1-year boosters after the initial series
• Every 1–3 years thereafter depending on the vaccine and local laws

Core vaccines (recommended for all cats):

• FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia): Protects against severe respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases.
• Rabies: Required by law in many areas and protects against a fatal zoonotic disease.
• FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus): FeLV is contagious and can be life-threatening to your kitten or adult cat.

Typical kitten schedule:

• 6–8 weeks: FVRCP
• 10–12 weeks: FVRCP booster ± FeLV
• 14–16 weeks: FVRCP final booster ± FeLV
• 16 weeks or older: Rabies

Booster schedule:

• 1-year boosters after the initial series
• Every 1–3 years thereafter depending on lifestyle and regional guidelines

Poor oral health can lead to:

• Painful infections
• Tooth loss
• Bad breath
• Difficulty eating
• Bacteria spreading from the mouth to the heart, liver, and kidneys
  Regular dental care helps maintain comfort, prevent disease, and support long-term overall health.

A professional dental cleaning under anesthesia allows your veterinarian to:

• Remove plaque and tartar below the gumline (where disease begins)
• Take dental X-rays to detect hidden tooth or bone problems
• Treat periodontal disease early before it causes pain or tooth loss
• Polish the teeth to slow future plaque buildup

This level of cleaning cannot be achieved while the pet is awake.

• Dogs: Typically 6–12 months, depending on breed and size. Large-breed dogs may benefit from waiting closer to 12–18 months.
• Cats: Usually 5–6 months, before they reach sexual maturity.

Benefits include:

• Preventing unwanted litters
• Reducing roaming and certain behavior issues
• Lower risk of mammary cancer (when spayed before the first heat)
• Eliminating risks of pyometra (uterine infection) and reducing testicular/prostate disease

Bloodwork helps your veterinarian:

• Evaluate organ function (kidneys, liver, etc.)
• Detect early disease before symptoms appear
• Ensure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia or medication
• Monitor chronic conditions
• Establish a baseline for future comparison
• It’s an essential part of preventive care.

Monthly preventatives help:

• Protect against diseases spread by fleas and ticks (Lyme, Ehrlichia, Bartonella)
• Prevent heartworm disease—potentially fatal and expensive to treat
• Stop intestinal parasites that can infect both pets and humans
• Keep your home free of infestations

Year-round prevention is simpler, safer, and more effective than treating infestations.

Options typically include:

• Palliative care: Managing pain and symptoms to keep your pet comfortable at home.
• Hospice care: Supportive care focused on quality of life during terminal illness.
• Humane euthanasia: A peaceful, painless option when quality of life declines.
• Cremation or burial services: Offered through many veterinary clinics.

Your veterinarian can help guide you through the process and assess quality-of-life indicators.

Yes—pet insurance can help cover unexpected injuries, illnesses, emergencies, and sometimes wellness care. It makes high-quality treatment more affordable and prevents financial stress from affecting medical decisions. Plans vary, so it’s helpful to compare coverage, deductibles, and exclusions.