Dog and Puppy
Vaccinations in London
Keeping your dog healthy and protected from serious diseases like parvo and leptospirosis starts with regular dog vaccinations.
At The Vet on Richmond Hill, we provide expert care to ensure your dog receives the right vaccinations at the right time.
Our services are available to residents in Richmond and the surrounding areas of Sheen, Hounslow, Brentford, Whitton and Twickenham.
How do vaccines work?
Dog vaccines work by stimulating the immune system to recognise and fight specific diseases.
They contain harmless versions of viruses or bacteria, prompting the body to produce antibodies without causing illness.
This helps the immune system respond quickly and effectively if the dog is exposed to the actual disease in the future, providing long-term protection against serious infections.
Essential dog vaccinations
The team here at Richmond Hill offer the following core vaccinations to safeguard your dog’s health:
- Canine hepatitis vaccine
- Leptospirosis vaccine (L4)
- Distemper vaccine
- Canine parvovirus vaccine
- Kennel cough vaccine
- Rabies vaccine
L4 Vaccine
The L4 leptospirosis vaccine can be given from 6–9 weeks of age, with the second vaccination 4 weeks later. The first dose is usually given at approximately 8 weeks old. In some cases, we may recommend a third vaccination if there is a high local risk of parvovirus.
Since COVID, there have been several outbreaks of parvovirus in South West London – even in adult dogs – which makes keeping vaccinations up to date especially important.
In Richmond, due to the presence of rivers and waterways, leptospirosis vaccination is particularly valuable as the disease is spread mainly via water contaminated with infected animal urine.
Costs of dog vaccinations
Vaccination costs depend on your dog’s age and required vaccines. Ask about our Vaccine Amnesty program, offering two injections for the price of one booster.
Dog vaccinations FAQ
What happens at a vaccination appointment?
Before administering any vaccine, we conduct a full health check to ensure your dog is fit for vaccination.
We’ll review local risks such as leptospirosis (common in Richmond due to rivers and green spaces) and parvovirus, which has seen recent outbreaks in SW London.
Please let us know if you have any travel plans or boarding requirements, so we can advise on any additional vaccinations such as the kennel cough vaccine.
We administer most of our dog vaccines via an injection under the skin, however some vaccinations can be administered through the nose.
After vaccination, we monitor your dog briefly for any immediate reactions.
Are dog vaccinations safe?
Yes! While side effects are rare, we monitor every pet closely.
What are the common side effects of a dog vaccination?
Dogs should receive core puppy vaccinations at 6-8 weeks old, with a second dose 2-4 weeks later and a booster at 12 months.
After that, annual dog vaccines should be booked in, though some vaccines, like rabies, may be given every three years.
Missing your dog’s booster vaccinations can leave them vulnerable. If so, get in touch with our team if you think your dog’s vaccinations are overdue.
How often should they be vaccinated and how long can you leave it between vaccinations?
Dogs should receive core puppy vaccinations at 6-8 weeks old, with a second dose 2-4 weeks later and a booster at 12 months.
After that, annual dog vaccines should be booked in, though some vaccines, like rabies, may be given every three years.
Missing your dog’s booster vaccinations can leave them vulnerable. Get in touch with our team if you think your dog’s vaccinations are overdue.
What’s a titre test for dogs?
A titre test for dogs measures the level of antibodies in the blood to determine immunity against specific diseases like parvovirus, distemper, or rabies.
It’s often used as an alternative to booster vaccinations, especially in dogs that are already vaccinated.
The test helps assess if a dog still has sufficient immunity, preventing over-vaccination while ensuring protection.
Catch up on your dog’s missed vaccinations
Has your dog missed a vaccination? Take advantage of our vaccine amnesty and bring them up to date for the price of a booster.
Join our VIP Plan
For cost-effective preventative care, join our VIP Healthcare Plan at the time of vaccination. Spread the cost of essential treatments and enjoy peace of mind.
020 7730 9102