• C3 Vaccination – Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis
• Kennel Cough (KC) Vaccination – Bordetella and Parainfluenza

Vaccination programs have played an important role in preventing disease. They are one of our most powerful tools in ensuring a healthy population of pets. Vaccination recommendations are complex and it is being increasingly recognised that veterinarians need to reduce the vaccine load to reduce the risk of adverse reactions.

Three Yearly Vaccinations

Research has emerged that the vaccinations against parvovirus, distemper and hepatitis viruses (C3) may not need to be given annually. Once the dogs are adults a booster vaccination every three years is sufficient to protect your pet. (This is NOT the case for Kennel Cough vaccination however). As science evolves, so too do the schedules recommended to protect our beloved canine family members!

At Inner South Vet Centre we have changed the C3 vaccinations of dogs from annual to a three yearly. Kennel Cough vaccination however still remains as an annual booster. The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA), the nationwide association of Australian vets, and the international organisation the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) supports this change. Boarding kennels also accept these changes in vaccination schedules.

So, what else happens at an annual health check?

When you come each year we will together decide the best vaccination schedule for your dog. Usually, every third year dogs will be given a triennial C3 vaccine. The vaccinations against Kennel Cough – a very serious respiratory disease – need to be given each year. Most dogs also need their annual Proheart® heart worm preventative injection. A through examination from snout to tail is a great tool in the early detection and prompt treatment of any emerging illness or issues.