What are 'core' vs 'non-core' vaccines?

Core: recommended for ALL puppies/kittens regardless of lifestyle. Dogs: DAPP + rabies. Cats: FVRCP + rabies (+ FeLV for kittens, becomes non-core in adult indoor cats). Non-core: lifestyle-dependent — Bordetella (kennel cough) for dogs that board, Lyme for outdoor dogs in tick areas, FIV for outdoor cats.

Why so many doses for puppies?

Maternal antibodies in milk protect puppies but also block vaccines. The first dose may not 'take' if maternal antibodies are still high; the second dose may not either. Three doses 3-4 weeks apart guarantees at least one effective shot once maternal antibodies fade (typically 12-16 weeks).

When can my puppy go outside?

Strictly cautious answer: 1-2 weeks after the third DAPP shot (so ~16-18 weeks). Modern guidance from AAHA is more permissive — socialisation is critical before 16 weeks, so many vets recommend supervised outings on clean surfaces (your own backyard, friends' yards with vaccinated dogs) starting after the second shot. Avoid dog parks, pet store floors, and unknown dog encounters until full series complete.

What about the rabies shot?

First rabies dose at 12-16 weeks (varies by region — some areas require a specific age). Boosted at 1 year, then every 1-3 years depending on local law (3-year rabies vaccines are equally effective per challenge studies; many jurisdictions still legally require annual).

Yes — overwhelming safety record. Mild side effects (1-2 days lethargy, soreness at injection site) are common and harmless. Serious adverse events are rare (<1 in 10,000) and usually allergic — vet clinics keep epinephrine on hand. Modern vaccines are extensively tested.

Should I follow a 'titre test' instead of automatic boosters?

Titre testing measures circulating antibodies and can replace some adult boosters. It costs $80-200 per test vs $30-60 per booster. AAHA accepts titre as evidence of immunity for DAPP and FVRCP. Rabies titre is not accepted in most jurisdictions — you still need the legal shot.

Puppy & Kitten Vaccination Schedule

Pet Care· 5 tools

Free puppy and kitten vaccination schedule generator. Uses AAHA / AAFP core-vaccine guidelines: puppies receive DAPP (Distemper-Adenovirus-Parvo-Parainfluenza) at 6-8, 10-12, and 14-16 weeks, plus rabies at 12-16 weeks. Kittens receive FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis-Calicivirus-Panleukopenia) on the same series, plus rabies and FeLV (kittens). Adult boosters every 1-3 years thereafter.

Species

Date of birth (or first shot)

Show non-core (lifestyle) vaccines

AAHA / AAFP core schedule · 3-shot puppy/kitten series + rabies

Confirm with your vet · local rabies laws and individual health may shift dates

DAPP #1

Week 7 · Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvo, Parainfluenza

Sun, Apr 19, 2026

DAPP #2

Week 11 · Booster (3-4 weeks after #1)

Sun, May 17, 2026

DAPP #3

Week 15 · Final puppy series

Sun, Jun 14, 2026

Rabies

Week 16 · Required by law in most jurisdictions

Sun, Jun 21, 2026

DAPP 1-year booster

Week 64 · Then every 1-3 years

Sun, May 23, 2027

Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. This is not veterinary advice — consult a qualified veterinarian for medical or dietary decisions about your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

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