Vet Vaccinations in Stamford, CT for Dogs and Cats

Vaccinations are not just about meeting requirements, they are a proactive way to protect your pet from serious and preventable diseases. At Core Vets Animal Hospital, we approach dog and cat vaccinations as part of a broader preventive care plan that supports lifelong health.

Our philosophy centers on clear communication and individualized guidance. We take the time to explain why certain vaccines are recommended, how they work, and how they fit into your pet’s overall wellness plan. This approach allows pet parents to make informed decisions without pressure or confusion.

The vaccines your pet needs depend on their species, age, lifestyle, and overall health. In general, dogs and cats receive a combination of core vaccines that protect against widespread and serious illnesses.

For dogs, core vaccines typically include protection against rabies and common viral diseases such as distemper. For cats, core vaccines often include rabies and protection against feline viral infections. During your visit, we review your pet’s history and environment to determine which vaccinations are appropriate.

Core vaccines are recommended for most pets because they protect against diseases that are common, severe, or legally regulated. Non-core vaccines are optional and are recommended based on lifestyle factors.

Non-core vaccines may be considered for pets who:

• Attend boarding, daycare, or grooming facilities
• Travel frequently
• Live in multi-pet households
• Spend time outdoors or in social environments

At Core Vets, we emphasize shared decision-making. We explain the benefits and considerations of each vaccine so you can feel confident in the plan you choose for your pet.

Yes, rabies vaccination is required by law in Connecticut for both dogs and cats. This vaccine is essential for protecting public health and ensuring compliance with state regulations.

During your appointment, we make sure your pet’s rabies vaccination is current and that you receive proper documentation. Keeping accurate records is important for licensing, boarding, travel, and peace of mind.

Vaccination schedules vary based on your pet’s age and medical history. Puppies and kittens typically receive a series of vaccines early in life, followed by boosters as they mature. Adult pets may require periodic boosters, often coordinated with annual wellness exams.

Rather than following rigid timelines, we evaluate your pet individually. Our goal is to provide protection while avoiding unnecessary treatments, always guided by veterinary judgment and open discussion.

Puppies and kittens usually begin vaccinations within their first few months of life. These early vaccines help protect them during a vulnerable stage when their immune systems are still developing.

Our team will walk you through the recommended schedule and explain the purpose of each step. Early protection sets the foundation for a healthier future.

Even pets that live primarily indoors can benefit from vaccinations. Diseases can be introduced through human contact, other animals, or unexpected situations such as emergency boarding or escapes.

We take a calm, practical approach when discussing indoor pets. By understanding your pet’s environment, we can recommend vaccinations that balance protection with your pet’s actual risk level.

Yes, vaccination plans can and should be customized. Pets in Fairfield County have a wide range of lifestyles, from quiet home environments to active social schedules.

We consider factors such as:

• Boarding and daycare needs
• Grooming requirements
• Travel plans
• Exposure to other animals

This personalized approach ensures your pet receives the right level of protection without unnecessary treatments.

Age alone is not a reason to stop vaccinating a pet. Senior pets may still benefit from certain vaccines depending on their health status and risk factors.

Before recommending vaccines for older pets, we assess their overall condition and have an open conversation about benefits and considerations. Our goal is always to support comfort, safety, and quality of life.

Choosing not to vaccinate can leave pets vulnerable to preventable diseases. It may also create challenges with boarding, grooming, and legal compliance.

Beyond individual risk, vaccinations help protect the broader pet community by reducing disease spread. We focus on education rather than fear, helping pet owners understand the role vaccines play in community health.

The cost of pet vaccinations can vary based on several factors, including the type of vaccine, your pet’s age, and whether a wellness exam is included.

At Core Vets Animal Hospital, we believe in transparency. We discuss costs upfront and explain what is included so there are no surprises. Our team is always happy to answer questions and help you plan for your pet’s care.

Pet owners choose Core Vets Animal Hospital because we offer more than routine vaccine visits. Our practice is built on connection, trust, and individualized care.

What sets us apart:

• A calm, anxiety-conscious environment
• Clear, jargon-free explanations
• Time to ask questions and have real conversations
• Independent, non-corporate veterinary care
• A team focused on long-term relationships, not transactions

We treat every pet like family and every visit as an opportunity to build trust.