Core Vaccines for Dogs
Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs regardless of lifestyle. In Canada, these include: Rabies (legally required in most provinces), Distemper (CDV), Parvovirus (CPV), and Adenovirus-2 (hepatitis). These diseases are serious, often fatal, and preventable through vaccination.
Puppies receive a series of vaccinations starting at 6–8 weeks, with boosters every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks of age. After the puppy series, dogs receive a booster at one year, then every 1–3 years depending on the vaccine type and your veterinarian's protocol. Rabies vaccination schedules vary by province — some require annual boosters, others accept the three-year vaccine.
Core Vaccines for Cats
Core vaccines for cats include: Rabies (legally required in most provinces), Feline Panleukopenia (FPV), Feline Calicivirus (FCV), and Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1). These are typically combined into a single FVRCP injection. Kittens receive these starting at 6–8 weeks with boosters every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks, then a one-year booster followed by every three years.
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) vaccine is considered core for kittens and cats with outdoor access or exposure to FeLV-positive cats. Testing for FeLV before vaccination is recommended. Indoor-only adult cats with no exposure risk may not need ongoing FeLV boosters.
Non-Core and Lifestyle Vaccines
Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your pet's specific risk factors. For dogs, these include Bordetella (kennel cough — essential for dogs in daycare, boarding, or dog parks), Leptospirosis (for dogs exposed to wildlife or stagnant water), Lyme disease (for dogs in tick-endemic areas of eastern and central Canada), and Canine Influenza.
Your veterinarian will recommend non-core vaccines based on your pet's lifestyle, geographic location, and exposure risks. Be honest about your pet's activities — a dog that visits off-leash parks has different needs than one that only goes for neighbourhood leash walks. Vaccination protocols should be individualized, not one-size-fits-all.
Vaccination Costs and Provincial Requirements
Vaccination costs in Canada vary by region and clinic. Expect to pay $75–$150 for individual vaccines or $200–$400 for a comprehensive puppy or kitten vaccine package that includes the full series. Many clinics offer wellness plans that bundle vaccinations with other preventive care at a discount.
Rabies vaccination requirements differ by province and municipality. Ontario, for example, requires rabies vaccination by law. In provinces without provincial mandates, many municipalities have their own bylaws. Check your local regulations — fines for unvaccinated pets can range from $100 to $500. Proof of rabies vaccination is also required for travel across provincial and international borders.
Frequently Asked Questions
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