How many vaccines does my pet need?
Vaccine recommendations are based on age, rather than a specific number. Most puppies and kittens need to have boosters starting at 6 weeks, then every 3-4 weeks until at least 16 weeks of age. These vaccines will help build your pet’s immune system. Puppies’ and kittens’ immune systems still have their mother’s antibodies until roughly 14-16 weeks of age, but because it’s unclear when that protection ends and their own immune systems start working, it’s important to booster as frequently as we recommend.
Why can’t my pet be microchipped?
We prefer a good cushion of fat between the shoulder blades of a pet to implant the microchip. If a pet is too small or underweight, we recommend waiting until the last set of boosters, or when the pet gets spayed/neutered. Keep in mind that if your pet is too wiggly or displays extreme aggression, we will not be able to microchip for the safety of your pet and the staff.
What would prevent my pet from being vaccinated?
If a pet appears sickly, has a fever, or any other medical issue that is impacting the pet’s health, the veterinarian reserves the right to not vaccinate the pet. Sick pets should be cleared by a full service vet before being vaccinated. Vaccines draw an immune response, and it is possible that whatever illness the pet might have can be worsened by a vaccine. If a pet has had an allergic reaction in the past to a certain vaccine, we also will not vaccinate, and suggest the pet be seen by a full service vet who is able to administer medications in the case of an allergic reaction.
Why do I have to pay a deposit when scheduling my appointment? Do I get it back?
We require a deposit to reserve your time slot so that no one else can take it, and to ensure that you show up.The deposit is non-refundable and non-transferrable, except in cases of emergency. The deposit goes towards the cost of one of the vaccines. If you get more than one vaccine, you will have to pay a remaining balance. If you miss your appointment, the deposit is forfeited and you will have to schedule another appointment. Learn more and schedule appointments for the vaccine clinic here.
Why are self-administered vaccines not considered part of a vaccine regimen?
While we understand the frustration, there is no way of knowing if vaccines bought from feed stores are viable. There are various storing and mixing instructions that we cannot confirm have been followed, and there have been cases of expired vaccines being sold. We recommend that all vaccines be administered by a licensed veterinarian to ensure your pet is happy and healthy. That’s one of the many reasons we offer our affordable vaccination clinic.
What is the difference between SNyPS and vaccine clinic?
SNyPS stands for Spay and Neuter Your PetS. Spaying and neutering are surgical sterilization procedures to improve your pet’s health and prevent unwanted litters. Your animal is dropped off early on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Friday morning and picked up in the afternoon. This is a separate service from our Vaccine Clinic – where an appointment can be made on our website on the first Thursday of the month. Vaccine clinic happens every Saturday and Sunday, from 11am-3pm, and on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 5pm-7pm. The appointment time slots are set for every 2-3 minutes. Only vaccines are done at this time. We will not spay/neuter your pet during a vaccination appointment. Please click here for more information on scheduling a spay or neuter appointment. Or contact our help desk at 775-324-7773 ext. 200 with general questions.
Written by Tera Read
Vaccines Your Pet Needs
Learn more about vaccines your pet needs and how often they need them.
Vaccination and Microchip Clinic
Read more about our vaccination and microchip clinic and make an appointment.