Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines: What Does Your Pet Really Need?

Vaccinations are one of the most important steps you can take to protect your pet’s health - but understanding which vaccines your pet truly needs can feel overwhelming. Pet owners often hear terms like core vaccines and non-core vaccines, but what do these actually mean, and how do they apply to your pet’s lifestyle in Hawaii?
 

What Are Core Vaccines?

Core vaccines are considered essential for all pets, regardless of lifestyle, because they protect against highly contagious or life-threatening diseases. These illnesses are widespread, severe, and often preventable only through vaccination.

Core Vaccines for Dogs

Dogs typically receive core vaccines that protect against:

• Rabies
• Distemper
• Parvovirus
• Adenovirus (canine hepatitis)

These diseases can spread quickly and may be fatal, especially in puppies or unvaccinated dogs.

Core Vaccines for Cats

Cats also have essential core vaccines, including protection against:

• Rabies
• Feline panleukopenia (feline distemper)
• Feline herpesvirus
• Feline calicivirus

Even indoor-only cats are recommended to receive core vaccines, as some viruses can be brought into the home on clothing or shoes.
 

What Are Non-Core Vaccines?

Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your pet’s individual risk factors, such as lifestyle, environment, travel, and exposure to other animals. While not required for every pet, they can be extremely important depending on daily activities.
 

Common Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs

Depending on lifestyle, dogs may benefit from vaccines for:

• Bordetella (kennel cough)
• Leptospirosis
• Canine influenza
• Lyme disease

Dogs that visit boarding facilities, dog parks, groomers, or beaches around Waipahu may have higher exposure risks.
 

Common Non-Core Vaccines for Cats

Non-core vaccines for cats may include:

• Feline leukemia virus (FeLV)
• Chlamydia

Outdoor access, multi-cat households, and contact with other cats increase the need for certain non-core vaccinations.
 

Why Location Matters: Pet Vaccinations in Waipahu

Living in Hawaii presents unique environmental considerations for pets. Warm weather, year-round parasite activity, community pet events, and close contact between animals can all affect disease risk.

That’s why pet vaccinations in Waipahu should never be one-size-fits-all. At Pet Hospitals of Hawaii, we consider:

• Your pet’s age and breed
• Indoor vs. outdoor lifestyle
• Travel or boarding plans
• Local disease risks
• Overall health status

Our goal is to provide protection without over-vaccinating, ensuring your pet gets exactly what they need.
 

Schedule Your Pet’s Vaccination Today

Understanding the difference between core and non-core vaccines empowers you to make confident decisions about your pet’s health. Core vaccines provide essential protection, while non-core vaccines add an extra layer of defense based on real-life risks. With personalized care and local expertise, Pet Hospitals of Hawaii is proud to support responsible pet vaccinations in Waipahu and throughout our island communities.

Contact Pet Hospitals of Hawaii to schedule an appointment and learn more about personalized pet vaccinations in Waipahu. Call (808) 671-7387 (PETS) to book an appointment today.