Vaccinations in Nashville, TN
Vaccines protect your pet from diseases that are common in Middle Tennessee and, in some cases, fatal. We follow current AAHA and AAFP guidelines and tailor the schedule to your pet's age, health, and lifestyle rather than giving every pet every shot.
What to expect
Core vaccines for dogs are rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus. Depending on where your dog goes, we may also recommend leptospirosis, Bordetella for boarding and daycare, and canine influenza. Core vaccines for cats are rabies, panleukopenia, herpesvirus, and calicivirus, with feline leukemia recommended for kittens and cats that go outdoors.
Puppies and kittens start their series at six to eight weeks and come back every three to four weeks until about sixteen weeks. Adults are boosted on a one- or three-year schedule depending on the vaccine.
Tennessee law requires a current rabies vaccine for dogs and cats. We will give you a certificate and tag at the visit.
Common questions
Which vaccines does my pet actually need?
It depends on age and lifestyle. An indoor cat needs fewer than a dog that goes to daycare and hikes at Radnor Lake. The doctor will lay out a schedule at your first visit and explain why each one is on it.
Are there side effects?
Most pets have none, or a day of mild soreness or tiredness. Serious reactions are rare. If your pet has ever reacted to a vaccine, tell us and we will adjust.
Can I just get vaccines without an exam?
A brief exam is required before vaccines so the doctor can confirm your pet is healthy enough to receive them. It also catches problems early.
Related services
Vaccinations is available to dogs and cats from Oak Hill and across South Nashville.