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Pet Vaccinations & Parasite Prevention in Ocala

Keeping your pet up to date on all vaccinations and parasite prevention helps keep them safe from disease, strengthens their immune system, and improves their overall quality of life.

At Paddock Park Animal Care Center we provide all the necessary pet vaccinations for animals living in Ocala, including flea and tick prevention, heartworm prevention, and more. Book online or call our office today to schedule your pet’s vaccinations and parasite prevention.

A hand holds a vaccine syringe with a black-and-tan dog blurred in the background.

The Importance of Vaccinating Your Pets

Vaccinating your pets is the best and simplest way to keep them protected from common diseases and other pests like fleas and ticks. In addition to routine protection, vaccines can help pets in numerous ways such as:

  • Vaccines can prevent the spread of disease from pet to human.
  • Reputable boarding, daycare, and training locations often require vaccination to enroll your pet.
  • Vaccinations may be needed for a pet to travel.
  • Many states, including California, require household pets to be vaccinated against certain diseases.
  • Vaccines keep your pet’s immune system strong by creating antibodies.
  • Keeping your pet vaccinated is one of the best ways to extend its life and ensure it’s living comfortably.
  • Vaccinating your pet will be more cost-effective than dealing with the treatment of disease and frequent vet visits.
A red merle puppy receives oral medication from a syringe indoors.

Why Choose Paddock Park Animal Care Center for Your Pet’s Vaccinations

Protection and prevention are one of our core services. Our experienced team of veterinarians combines vaccination and parasite prevention with routine wellness exams to create the foundation of your pet’s healthcare.

While necessary, vaccinations can be a stressful time for your pet. Our professional team always treats your furry friends with empathy and compassion and works diligently to create a comfortable environment that caters to each pet’s individual needs.

Vaccination Schedule for
Cats & Kittens

Maintaining a consistent cat vaccine schedule ensures they’re staying fully protected. New kittens need a series of vaccines within the first several months of their life, as they are particularly vulnerable due to their weak immune systems.

VaccinePurpose
FVRCP(Feline rhinotracheitis, feline calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia)Protects against core viral diseases.
BordetellaProtects against kennel cough.
FVRCP (Booster)Strengthens immunity against core viral diseases.
FeLV (Feline Leukemia)Protects against feline leukemia.
RabiesProtects against rabies.
FVRCP (Second Booster)Further protects and boosts immunity against core viral diseases.
FeLV (Booster)Further protects and boosts immunity against core viral diseases.
RabiesContinues protection against rabies.
FVRCPContinues protection against core viral diseases.
FeLVContinue protection against feline leukemia.

Vaccination Schedule for Dogs & Puppies

Like cats, dogs also have a comprehensive list of vaccines that you need to be aware of. Work with your vet to maintain a proper dog vaccination schedule, starting with their first wellness exam at six weeks of age. Here is a full schedule of dog vaccinations you should plan for your pup.

VaccinePurpose
BordetellaProtects against kennel cough.
DHPP (Combo)Combo vaccine that prevents contagious viruses including distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza.
DHPP (Booster)Strengthens immunity against contagious viruses.
RabiesProtects against rabies.
LeptospirosisEnsures lasting protection against leptospirosis bacteria.
Canine InfluenzaProtects against contagious respiratory flu viruses.
LymeProtects against Lyme disease transmitted by ticks.
DHHP (Booster)Provides full immunity against core viral diseases.
RabiesContinues protection against rabies.
DHPP (Combo)Continues protection against contagious viruses.
LeptospirosisContinues protection against leptospirosis bacteria.
LymeContinues protection against Lyme disease.
Canine InfluenzaContinues protection against respiratory flu viruses.
BordetellaContinues protection against kennel cough.
Hand feeding poodle with parasiticide chewable to protect and treat from heartworms

Parasite Prevention for Pets in Ocala

Parasite prevention is also key for pets living in Ocala. We offer full protection against a wide range of parasites, such as:

  • Fleas
  • Ticks
  • Ear Mites
  • Heartworm
  • Hookworm
  • Roundworm
  • Whipworm

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects to Watch Out For

After your pet has been vaccinated, it may experience some temporary side effects. These can include soreness or swelling at the injection site, mild fever, lethargy, or decreased appetite. More serious adverse reactions are highly unlikely but can occur. Pets can sometimes have an allergic reaction to a vaccine which requires immediate attention. In extremely rare instances, cats can develop tumors known as vaccine-associated-sarcomas (VAS) on the site of injection. Symptoms from an adverse reaction to a vaccine can include vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, seizures or fainting, hives or facial swelling, and pale or blue gums. If you notice your pet exhibiting any of these symptoms, please contact us.

Payment Options for Vaccination & Prevention at Paddock Park Animal Care Center

At Paddock Park Animal Care Center we offer flexible financing and insurance options for Vaccination & Prevention. Sign up today with any of our payment plan partners or contact us for specific questions about insurance coverage. Read more about our financing options here.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Vaccinations

  • What's the difference between a core vaccination and a non-core vaccination?

    Core vaccinations are required for all cats and dogs, but non-core vaccines are optional depending on a pet’s risk factors. For dogs, non-core vaccines include Bordetella, Lyme, canine influenza, and canine leptospirosis.

  • How do vaccines protect pets?

    Vaccines stimulate the pet’s immune system by producing a weakened antigen that triggers the pet’s body to produce antibodies that are designed to fight against the disease.

  • Do pets undergo vaccination during wellness exams?

    New puppies should come in for their first wellness exam at around six weeks of age, while kittens should come in at around eight weeks. During these visits, the veterinarian may opt to induce the first round of vaccines such as DHPP in dogs, and FVRCP in cats.

Book an Appointment at Paddock Park Animal Care Center

New pets are always welcome at Paddock Park Animal Care Center. Our friendly veterinary staff looks forward to providing our neighbors in the area and surrounding communities with the veterinary care they need.

A stocky, brindle-colored dog with its mouth open and tongue hanging out, appearing happy