Many dogs and cats are still vaccinated more than needed. Research over the last 20 years has consistently demonstrated that the vast majority of dogs and cats will have long lasting (probably lifetime) immunity from the core vaccines, yet there are still a few veterinarians that administer these vaccinations annually. Dr Hoover became convinced of this over 15 years ago in the mid 1990s. He was one of the first veterinarians in private practice to modify his vaccination intervals. At that time new research was demonstrating that the duration of immunity for most of the "annual vaccinations" was many years. Many veterinarians were skeptical of the research and some were fearful that pet owners would stop coming for exams if the family dog or cat did not get the annual "shots". Dr. Hoover initially met resistance from area boarding kennels and even some veterinary hospitals because his patients were not vaccinated annually. Over the last 15 years this has changed dramatically and most veterinary professional organizations have published recommendations that call for extended vaccine protocols. Vaccinations still play a critical role in preventing life-threatening diseases and there are some types of vaccinations that are needed more frequently. At Westside Animal Hospital the vaccine recommendations we make for your pet will based on the latest science and individual risk factors. Core vaccinations are usually recommended in puppies and kittens monthly until 4 months of age, at one year of age and then every 4 years until age ten. After 10 years of age we do not recommend core vaccinations. Rabies is given as prescribed by North Carolina law. Other non-core vaccinations may be indicated based on the owner's preferences and the pet's risk factors.