Pet Vaccinations in Monona and Madison
Vaccines protect dogs and cats from serious and sometimes fatal infectious diseases. At Four Lakes Veterinary Clinic, we provide tailored vaccination plans for pets in Monona and Madison, following AVMA and AAFP guidelines so your pet receives the protection they need without unnecessary vaccines.
Core Vaccines for Dogs and Cats
Core vaccines are recommended for every pet because the diseases they prevent are widespread, highly contagious, or dangerous to people.
- Dogs: Rabies and DHPP (distemper, hepatitis/adenovirus, parainfluenza, and parvovirus), with Leptospirosis and Bordetella included in our core protocol
- Cats: Rabies and FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia)
Lifestyle Vaccines
Depending on your pet’s exposure risk, our veterinarians may recommend additional vaccines:
- Lyme disease vaccine: recommended for nearly every Wisconsin dog because ticks are so common here. Learn more about Lyme disease.
- Canine influenza: recommended for dogs who travel or visit daycares, dog parks, grooming, or boarding facilities, some of which now require it
- Feline leukemia (FeLV): recommended for kittens and cats who go outdoors or live with other cats
Vaccines for Puppies and Kittens
Young pets receive a series of vaccines every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 to 20 weeks of age, because protection from their mother’s antibodies fades over time. Staying on schedule is essential for the vaccines to work. These early visits are also a great time to discuss microchipping, parasite prevention for heartworm disease, and spay or neuter surgery.
A Personalized, Not Excessive, Approach
Not every vaccine is needed every year. Your veterinarian reviews your pet’s health, age, and lifestyle at each wellness exam before recommending vaccines, and may delay vaccines for pets with certain medical conditions. Mild, short-lived side effects such as soreness or sleepiness are common, but if your pet has had a reaction before, let us know so we can take extra precautions. Fear Free handling helps keep vaccine visits calm, especially for pets with anxiety at the vet.
Save With Free Vaccines for Life
Our Free Vaccines for Life program covers core vaccines for your pet’s lifetime after a one-time enrollment fee, as long as they come in for a yearly wellness exam. Enrolled dogs also save 50% on the Lyme vaccine. Planning a stay in our cat boarding program? We will make sure your cat’s vaccines are current before check-in. New to our clinic? Visit our New Clients page to get started, and pick up year-round preventatives at our pharmacy.
Pet Vaccination FAQs
What vaccines does my dog need?
Core vaccines for dogs include rabies and DHPP, and our core protocol also includes leptospirosis and Bordetella. Lyme and canine influenza vaccines are recommended based on lifestyle.
What vaccines does my cat need?
Core vaccines for cats include rabies and FVRCP. The feline leukemia vaccine is recommended for kittens and cats who go outdoors or live with other cats.
Is the rabies vaccine required in Wisconsin?
Yes. Wisconsin law requires dogs to be vaccinated against rabies, and rabies vaccination is strongly recommended for all cats.
When should my puppy or kitten start vaccines?
Puppies and kittens typically start vaccines around 6 to 8 weeks of age and continue boosters every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 to 20 weeks old.
Do indoor cats need vaccines?
Yes. Indoor cats can still be exposed to diseases through open windows, other pets, or accidental escapes, so core vaccines are recommended.
Are vaccine side effects common?
Mild side effects such as tiredness or soreness at the injection site are common and usually pass within a day or two. Serious reactions are rare.
Can I save on my pet’s vaccines?
Yes. Our Free Vaccines for Life program covers core vaccines for life with a yearly wellness exam and offers a 50% discount on the Lyme vaccine.
Keep Your Pet’s Vaccines Up to Date
Protect your pet from preventable diseases. Call Four Lakes Veterinary Clinic at (608) 819-6750 or request an appointment online to schedule vaccines in Monona and Madison.