A Shot at a Healthy Life
At Redwood Pet Clinic, our caring team of veterinarians in Greenbrae, CA, serves puppies, kittens, and their loving pet parents throughout the surrounding Marin County community. We know that welcoming a new furry friend into your life is exciting—and maybe just a little overwhelming. That’s why our veterinary clinic is here to guide you through one of the most important parts of early pet care: puppy and kitten vaccines. With the right vaccine schedule, you’re giving your furry pal a strong start and lifelong protection against preventable diseases.
Vaccines are a vital part of your pet’s preventive care. They help the immune system recognize and fight off dangerous illnesses, keeping your pet healthy as they grow and explore. In this blog, we’ll explain why vaccines matter, what to expect during your visits to our Greenbrae animal hospital, and which vaccines your puppy or kitten needs during their first year of life. Let’s give your four-legged bestie the best start possible.
Why Puppy and Kitten Vaccines Matter
Young pets are especially vulnerable to infectious diseases because their immune systems are still developing. Without the protection of vaccines, they can fall seriously ill from viruses and bacteria that are common in the environment—even if they stay indoors.
Benefits of Vaccinating Early
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Protects against life-threatening diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and feline panleukopenia
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Strengthens your pet’s immune system
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Reduces the spread of contagious diseases in the community
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Satisfies legal requirements (e.g., rabies vaccination)
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Ensures safe socialization with other pets
At Redwood Pet Clinic, we follow veterinary guidelines and tailor vaccine schedules to your pet’s individual health, lifestyle, and risk factors.
The Puppy Vaccine Schedule
Your pup should begin vaccinations at around 6 to 8 weeks of age. Boosters are then given every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks of age to build full immunity. Puppies need a combination of core vaccines (essential for all dogs) and non-core vaccines (based on lifestyle).
Core Vaccines for Puppies
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DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
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Rabies (required by law in most areas)
Non-Core Vaccines (Based on Risk)
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Bordetella (kennel cough) – recommended for dogs who board, go to daycare, or visit dog parks
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Leptospirosis – for dogs exposed to wildlife or standing water
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Canine Influenza – for dogs in social settings or high-risk areas
Your vet will help you with scheduling vaccines and boosters. The American Animal Hospital Association has more information on dog vaccinations here. PetMD has information about kitty vaccinations here.
You can also read our blog on taking Fluffy to the vet here.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
When you bring your puppy or kitten to Redwood Pet Clinic for their first checkup, we’ll take the time to:
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Conduct a full physical exam
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Check for parasites (like fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms)
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Answer questions about feeding, training, and behavior
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Provide vaccine education and a custom vaccine schedule
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Give your pet plenty of positive reinforcement (treats, snuggles, praise!)
We want your furry friend to associate the vet clinic with positive experiences from day one.
FAQs: Puppy & Kitten Vaccines
Are vaccinations safe for puppies and kittens?
Yes, vaccinations are very safe when administered by a licensed veterinarian. Mild side effects like sleepiness or soreness at the injection site are possible but temporary.
What happens if I miss a vaccine booster?
It’s important to stay on schedule. If a booster is missed, your veterinarian may need to restart the series to ensure full protection. Call us if you fall behind.
Can my indoor cat skip vaccines?
Even indoor cats need core vaccines, as some viruses can enter the home via humans, other animals, or shared surfaces. Rabies vaccination is also required by law in many places.
Will my pet be protected right after the first shot?
No—most vaccines require multiple doses to build full immunity. That’s why it’s important to complete the entire series and avoid high-risk environments until then.
Protect Your Pet’s Future at Our Greenbrae, CA Vet Clinic
Vaccinating your puppy or kitten is one of the most important decisions you can make for their lifelong health. At Redwood Pet Clinic, our experienced veterinarians in Greenbrae, CA, are committed to providing gentle, thorough, and personalized care for your newest family member. If you’re searching for a vet near me who will guide you every step of the way, we’re here to help.
Call us today to schedule your new pet’s first appointment. Let’s give them the best start possible—with a strong immune system, happy tail wags, and healthy purrs.
This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized medical advice, vaccine recommendations, and proper care for your pet.
