Vaccine 101

In the state of Georgia, all pets 3 months and older are legally required to have proof of a rabies vaccine.  This must be in the form of a rabies certificate, complete with month, day and year that your pet's rabies vaccine was administered and signed by a licensed veterinarian.  You will be requested to upload a copy of your pet's rabies certificate when making your appointment. If your pet is not up to date on their rabies vaccine, we are able to administer this vaccine to bring them current on the day of their surgery appointment. 

1 Year Rabies vs. 3 Year Rabies Vaccines

In Georgia, rabies vaccination requirements for pets are primarily governed by state law, which mandates that all dogs, cats, and ferrets be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian. However, the frequency of booster vaccinations—whether annually or every three years—is determined by individual county regulations. Some counties in Georgia require annual rabies vaccinations regardless of whether a three-year vaccine was administered.

While a comprehensive list of these counties is not readily available, it’s noted that approximately 20 counties in Georgia are considered “one-year” counties, meaning they only issue rabies vaccination certificates valid for one year, even if a three-year vaccine was given. 

Given the variability in county regulations, it’s essential to consult your local county health department or animal services to determine the specific rabies vaccination requirements in your area. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding vaccination intervals and certification validity.

DA2PP

DA2PP (distemper virus, adenovirus, parvovirus, and parainfluenza virus).  This core vaccine should be given to puppies starting at 6-8 weeks of age, and then administered every 2-4 weeks until they reach 16 weeks.  If your dog is under 16 weeks of age and it has been 2-4 weeks since their last DA2PP vaccine, we recommend administering this vaccine at the time of surgery. 

Bordatella

The Bordetella vaccine provides coverage against kennel cough.  It can be given at 8 weeks of age and needs to be administered once every year. 

• If your dog goes to boarding facilities, dog parks, or other environments where they interact with multiple other dogs, they are considered high-risk for kennel cough and should be vaccinated for Bordetella every 6 months.

• If your dog has never received this vaccine or it has been a year since last given, we recommend administering this vaccine at time of surgery. 

FVRCP

FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calici virus, panleukopenia).  This core vaccine should be given to kittens starting at 6-8 weeks of age, and then administered every 2-4 weeks until they reach 16 weeks.  If your cat is under 16 weeks of age and it has been 2-4 weeks since their last FVRCP vaccine, we recommend administering this vaccine at time of surgery.