Vaccinations aren’t just shots — they’re life-saving protection for your furry friend. Pet vaccination remains a crucial aspect of responsible pet ownership. Whether you have a playful puppy or a curious kitten, ensuring proper immunization helps prevent deadly diseases, keeps your pet healthy, and protects your whole family.
Why Vaccination Matters
Vaccines train your pet’s immune system to fight serious infections before they occur. Without vaccination:
- Your dog or cat is at risk of fatal illnesses like rabies, parvovirus, and panleukopenia
- Dangerous diseases can spread to other pets or even humans (like rabies).
- Treatment costs can be far higher than the cost of prevention.
Vaccination also supports legal requirements — in many cities, including Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad, proof of rabies vaccination is mandatory for licensing and public entry.
Core Vaccines Every Pet Needs
Dog Core Vaccines
These vaccines protect against diseases that are common and often deadly:
- Rabies Vaccine
- Legally required in Pakistan for both dogs and cats.
- Prevents a fatal nervous system disease that spreads to humans.
- DHPP / 5-in-1 Vaccine
- Protects against Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza and often Leptospirosis.
- Given in a series starting at 6–8 weeks of age.
- Booster Shots
- Most core vaccines require boosters at one year and then periodically as per your vet’s recommendation.
😺 Cat Core Vaccines
- Rabies Vaccine
- Mandatory and life-saving, rabies is almost always fatal without vaccination.
- FVRCP Vaccine
- A combination vaccine protecting against Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia.
- Usually started at 6–8 weeks of age with booster doses.
- Annual Boosters
- Essential to maintain immunity throughout your cat’s life.
Non-Core Vaccines (Depending on Lifestyle)
Not all pets need these, but some are hugely beneficial based on your pet’s environment:
- Kennel Cough (Bordetella) – Recommended if your dog frequently meets other dogs.
- Leptospirosis – Important in areas with stagnant water or flooding risk.
- Canine Influenza – Helps protect against flu strains in densely populated dog environments.
- Feline Leukemia (FeLV) – Recommended for outdoor or high-risk cats.
Your veterinarian will help decide which non-core vaccines are right for your pet.
Vaccination Schedule
Dogs
- 6–8 weeks: First DHPP / 5-in-1
- 10–12 weeks: Second dose
- 14–16 weeks: Final puppy dose + first rabies shot
- 1 year later: Boosters & rabies
- Every 1–3 years: Follow-up boosters as advised by your vet .
Cats
- 6–8 weeks: First FVRCP
- 10–12 weeks: Second FVRCP
- 14–16 weeks: Final FVRCP + rabies
- Annual: Both boosters thereafter.
Brand Names of Vaccines Available in Pakistan
Here are some vaccine brands commonly used by veterinarians in Pakistan:
Rabies Vaccines
- Rabisin (Merial) – Trusted rabies vaccine inactivated for dogs and cats.
- Biocan Rabies – Effective and widely available in local clinics.
Combination & Other Vaccines
- Canvac – A multi-disease vaccine beneficial for dogs.
- Biocan Novel DHPPi+L4 – Broad protection including distemper and parvo.
- Nobivac DHPPi+L – Well-known multi-component vaccine used by clinics.
- Bronchicine / Nobivac KC – Options for kennel cough vaccines.
Note: Vaccine brands can vary by clinic and city, and newer options may also become available by 2025.
Tips to Keep Vaccination Affordable
Vaccination is a one-time cost that saves exponentially compared to treating preventable diseases. Still, here are ways to keep it budget-friendly:
1. Ask for Packages
Many clinics offer bundled packages for puppies and kittens at reduced prices.
2. Mobile Vet Services
Mobile vets that come to your home often charge less because they cut clinic overhead.
3. Seasonal or Group Drives
Vaccination campaigns by shelters or animal welfare groups can reduce costs or even offer free shots.
4. Visit Local Veterinary Colleges
Teaching hospitals sometimes provide vaccinations at subsidized rates.
📌 5. Compare Clinic Prices
Prices can vary across clinics so a quick comparison can save you hundreds of rupees per dose.
What to Expect After Vaccination
Most pets tolerate vaccines well, but you might notice:
- Mild soreness at the injection site
- Slight lethargy
- Reduced appetite temporarily
Serious reactions are rare, but if you see vomiting, difficulty breathing, or severe swelling, contact your vet immediately.
FAQs
1. How often should my pet get vaccinated?
Most core vaccines require an initial series in early life, followed by regular boosters (usually administered annually or every 3 years, depending on the vaccine and vet advice.
2. Are vaccines safe for puppies and kittens?
Yes — vaccines used by qualified vets are safe and critical for preventing deadly diseases.
3. Can indoor pets skip vaccinations?
No, even indoor pets are at risk from disease carriers entering the home or from unexpected exposures.
4. Do I need to show proof of vaccination?
In many Pakistani cities, a vaccination card is required for pet licensing and travel.
5. Can I give vaccinations myself?
Never — only registered veterinarians should administer vaccines to ensure proper storage, handling, and safety.
