Pet Vaccination Schedule Calculator

Veterinary Advice

This schedule is based on AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) guidelines. However, every pet is unique. Your veterinarian may adjust this schedule based on local disease risks and your pet's health.

Why Follow a Schedule?

Vaccines are usually the single most cost-effective way to keep a pet healthy. Diseases like Parvovirus are highly contagious and capable of killing a puppy in 48 hours. A $30 vaccine prevents a $5,000 emergency hospital stay.

Our tool creates a personalized timeline so you never miss a booster. Missing a shot by a few weeks can sometimes mean having to restart the whole series, costing you more money and leaving your pet vulnerable.

Core Vaccines

Mandatory for all pets given severity of disease.

Rabies
Found in wildlife. 100% fatal accurately. Required by law.
DHPP (Dogs)
Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza. The "Puppy Shot".
FVRCP (Cats)
Panleukopenia (Distemper), Herpesvirus, Calicivirus.

Lifestyle Vaccines

Recommended based on where you live.

Bordetella
"Kennel Cough". Needed for boarding, grooming, or dog parks.
Leptospirosis
Bacterial infection from wildlife urine. Recommended for active dogs.
Lyme Disease
Transmitted by ticks. Essential in Northeast/Midwest US.

Estimated Costs (First Year)

Visit / Age	Typical Items	Est. Cost
6-8 Weeks	Exam, DHPP #1, Fecal Test (Worms)	$80 - $150
10-12 Weeks	Exam, DHPP #2, Lepto #1	$80 - $150
14-16 Weeks	Exam, DHPP #3, Rabies, Lepto #2	$100 - $200
Total First Year	Includes deworming/prevention	$300 - $800

* Costs vary significantly by region and clinic type. Low-cost vaccine clinics can be 50% cheaper but lack comprehensive exams.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do puppies need so many shots?

Puppies and kittens receive partial immunity from their mother's milk, which fades over their first few months. The series of boosters (usually at 8, 12, and 16 weeks) ensures that as the mother's protection fades, the vaccine takes over to build their own immune system without a 'gap' in protection.

How much do puppy vaccinations cost?

In the US, the typical cost for the entire first-year series ranges from $300 to $800. This depends on your location and whether you go to a full-service vet or a low-cost vaccine clinic. Each visit usually includes an exam fee ($40-$80) plus the vaccines ($20-$40 each).

Is the Rabies vaccine required by law?

Yes. In almost all US states and many countries, the Rabies vaccine is required by law for both dogs and cats. The first shot is typically valid for 1 year, and subsequent boosters are valid for 3 years.

What happens if I miss a booster?

If you are only a few days late, it's usually fine. However, if you are weeks or months late during the initial puppy series, your vet may recommend restarting the series to ensure full immunity. For adult dogs, missing a booster might just mean getting a shot immediately, but it could lapse their legal rabies status.

Does my indoor cat really need shots?

Yes. Even indoor cats can be exposed to diseases. Viruses like Panleukopenia can be carried into the house on your shoes. Bats (which carry Rabies) can fly into homes. Core vaccines are highly recommended for all pets regardless of lifestyle.

What are the side effects of vaccines?

Most pets experience mild lethargy or a small lump at the injection site for a day or two. Serious reactions (swollen face, vomiting, hives) are rare but require immediate emergency vet attention. They usually happen within minutes to hours of the shot.

Can I vaccinate my pet myself at home?

While you can buy some vaccines at farm supply stores, it is not recommended for most owners. Store-bought vaccines may haven been stored improperly (rendering them useless), and you won't have legal proof of vaccination (especially for Rabies, which MUST be done by a vet).

What is Lepto and does my dog need it?

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread by wildlife urine (rats, raccoons) in soil or water. It causes kidney failure in dogs and can spread to humans. It is now considered a 'core' vaccine in many areas, but ask your vet based on your location.