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Every puppy and kitten should receive a veterinary exam as soon as possible after adoption. At this time, you should ask your veterinarian what vaccinations are recommended at his or her clinic. There is no doubt that vaccination has reduced the incidence and severity of many diseases, but there is controversy about how frequently vaccinations should be given.

Most puppies and kittens receive "distemper" vaccinations at 8 and 12 weeks, sometimes also at 16 weeks. Puppies that are at high risk of parvovirus because of their breed (eg. Rottweilers) may even need a shot at 20 weeks.

These vaccinations are usually combination inoculates effective against several viruses that cause respiratory and gastrointestinal disease (severe colds, pneumonia, and terrible diarrheal/vomiting diseases). A distemper shot has nothing to do with your dog's behavior or temperament and will not calm him down.

All cats and dogs and some other mammals should be vaccinated against rabies. The age and frequency of vaccination is mandated by each state, and your vet can tell you when it needs to be done in your area.

Ask your vet about his or her recommendations concerning vaccination against Giardia, Lyme Disease, Feline Leukemia Virus and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. There are no hard and fast blanket recommendations about these. A sign of a good veterinarian is one who will take the time to talk to you about your pet's lifestyle in order to help you decide what to give and how often to give it.

Learn more about this author, Joshua Keyes DVM.
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