Healthcare services
Vaccinations & Preventative Care
Keeping your pet protected with the right vaccines at the right time — tailored to their age, lifestyle, and risk factors.
Why vaccinations matter
Vaccinations are one of the most important things you can do to protect your pet's health. They work by stimulating the immune system to recognise and fight specific diseases — preventing serious illness, reducing the risk of transmission to other animals, and in some cases protecting your family too.
At Vets in Frankston, we tailor every vaccination schedule to your individual pet. We take into account their age, breed, lifestyle, and any previous vaccination history to ensure they receive the protection they need — nothing more, nothing less.
Dog vaccinations
We follow the Australian Veterinary Association guidelines for canine vaccination. Core vaccines protect against the most serious and widespread diseases.
Core vaccines (recommended for all dogs)
Distemper
A serious viral illness affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
Hepatitis (Adenovirus)
A viral infection that can cause severe liver damage and is often fatal in unvaccinated dogs.
Parvovirus
A highly contagious and potentially fatal disease causing severe vomiting and bloody diarrhoea.
Bordetella & Parainfluenza (Kennel Cough)
Recommended for dogs that visit kennels, dog parks, groomers, or have contact with other dogs.
Non-core vaccines (based on lifestyle and risk)
Leptospirosis
Recommended for dogs with exposure to wildlife, waterways, or rural environments.
Puppies typically receive their first vaccine at 6–8 weeks, followed by boosters at 10–12 weeks and 14–16 weeks. Adult dogs require annual or triennial boosters depending on the vaccine type.
Cat vaccinations
Whether your cat is indoor-only or ventures outside, vaccinations are essential to protect against common and potentially fatal feline diseases.
Core vaccines (recommended for all cats)
Feline Herpesvirus (Cat Flu)
Causes upper respiratory infection — sneezing, nasal discharge, and eye problems. Very common and highly contagious.
Feline Calicivirus (Cat Flu)
Another major cause of cat flu, also associated with oral ulcers and limping syndrome.
Feline Panleukopaenia (Feline Parvovirus)
A severe and often fatal disease causing vomiting, diarrhoea, and bone marrow suppression.
Non-core vaccines (based on lifestyle and risk)
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
Recommended for cats that go outdoors or have contact with other cats, as FIV is spread through bite wounds.
Kittens receive their first vaccine at 6–8 weeks, with boosters at 10–12 weeks and 14–16 weeks. Adult cats require annual boosters for the F3 core vaccine.
Rabbit vaccinations
Rabbits are susceptible to Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV), a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease. Vaccination is strongly recommended for all pet rabbits in Australia.
Core vaccines (recommended for all rabbits)
Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV)
RHDV causes rapid internal bleeding and is almost always fatal. The virus can spread through direct contact, insects, and contaminated environments — even indoor rabbits are at risk.
Kittens (young rabbits) can be vaccinated from 4 weeks of age, with a booster at 8 weeks and then annually. We recommend discussing your rabbit's individual risk factors at their first appointment.
What to expect at your vaccination appointment
Full health check
Before any vaccine is given, your vet will perform a thorough nose-to-tail examination to ensure your pet is healthy enough to be vaccinated.
Vaccination discussion
We'll review your pet's history, lifestyle, and any previous reactions to tailor the right vaccine protocol for them.
Vaccination
The vaccine is administered quickly and with minimal stress. Most pets barely notice — a treat helps!
Reminder & certificate
You'll receive a vaccination certificate and we'll set up reminders so you never miss a booster.
Common questions
Book your pet's vaccination today
Our friendly team is here to help keep your pet protected. Book online or give us a call.