Dog Vaccinations in the Inner West: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

Vaccinating your dog is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect their health and ensure a long, happy life. In areas like the Inner West, where pets often socialise at parks, beaches, and doggy daycares, staying on top of your dog’s vaccination schedule is not just responsible—it’s essential.

At Balmain Veterinary Hospital, we offer tailored dog vaccinations in the Inner West, helping your pet stay safe from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Whether your dog is a puppy or a senior companion, our team of experienced vets is here to support every stage of their health journey.

 

Why Dog Vaccinations are Important

Dog vaccinations are a crucial part of preventive healthcare. They protect against highly contagious diseases such as Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis, and Leptospirosis—conditions that can cause severe illness or even be fatal.

Vaccinations don’t just protect your dog—they also help reduce the spread of disease in the pet community. In many cases, up-to-date vaccinations are required for accessing boarding facilities, training schools, grooming services, and even public spaces like off-leash parks.
When you keep your dog’s vaccinations current, you’re investing in their long-term health and reducing the risk of costly emergency treatments.

 

Core and Non-Core Dog Vaccines Explained

Vaccines are grouped into two categories: core and non-core.

Core Vaccines:

These are essential for all dogs, regardless of breed or lifestyle. Core vaccinations typically include:

C3 Vaccine – Covers Parvovirus, Distemper, and Infectious Hepatitis.

C5 Vaccine – Adds protection against Kennel Cough (Bordetella and Parainfluenza).

C7 Vaccine – Includes everything in C5 plus Leptospirosis and Coronavirus, suitable for dogs at greater risk.

Non-Core Vaccines:

These are recommended based on your dog’s needs, exposure risk, and environment. They may include:

Canine Coronavirus – For dogs that frequently attend parks, kennels, or grooming salons.

Leptospirosis – Particularly relevant for dogs near waterways or in areas with wildlife.

Rabies – Not common in Australia but essential for dogs travelling overseas.

Our Vet Balmain team team will work with you to determine the best vaccine schedule based on your dog’s age, breed, and lifestyle.

 

Puppy and Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule

Puppies need an early start to vaccinations, as their immune systems are still developing. The standard puppy vaccination schedule is:

6–8 weeks: First vaccination

10–12 weeks: Booster dose

14–16 weeks: Final vaccination in the series

After the initial course, your puppy will need annual boosters to maintain their immunity. For adult dogs, vaccinations should be given every 1–3 years, depending on the type of vaccine and the dog's risk factors.

Senior dogs may need more frequent check-ups, especially if they have underlying health concerns. Our experienced team will tailor the schedule accordingly.

 

Why Choose Balmain Veterinary Hospital for Dog Vaccinations?

When you search for reliable dog vaccinations in the Inner West, you want more than just a jab—you want care, guidance, and trust. That’s precisely what you’ll get at Balmain Veterinary Hospital.

We’re a trusted name in the Inner West community, offering:

• Experienced veterinarians who take the time to understand your dog’s unique needs
• Comprehensive health check-ups alongside every vaccination appointment
• A gentle and stress-free approach that makes your dog feel safe and relaxed
• Tailored vaccination plans based on your dog’s lifestyle and environment

As your local Vet Balmain, we’re committed to keeping your pets protected and happy.

 

What to Expect After Your Dog’s Vaccination

After their vaccination, your dog might experience mild side effects such as tiredness, slight fever, or mild swelling at the injection site. These symptoms typically resolve on their own within a day or two.

However, it’s important to monitor your dog for any unusual signs such as persistent vomiting, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing. While allergic reactions are rare, they do require prompt veterinary attention.

We recommend keeping your dog indoors and offering plenty of water and rest following their appointment.

 

What Happens if You Miss a Vaccination?

Life gets busy, and it’s not uncommon for a booster to slip through the cracks. However, missing a scheduled vaccination can leave your dog vulnerable to serious illnesses.

If you’ve missed a vaccine or can’t remember your dog’s vaccination history, don’t stress—just contact our team. We’ll assess your dog's needs and get them back on track with the right vaccination protocol.

 

Book Your Dog’s Vaccination Today

Protect your dog with professional dog vaccinations at Balmain Veterinary Hospital. We proudly serve Balmain and the wider Inner West community with tailored, compassionate care.
Call us now on (02) 9810 7544 or visit us at 77 Victoria Rd, Rozelle NSW 2039.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 7:30 am – 7:00 pm
Saturday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sunday: Closed

Your dog deserves the best protection. Let’s keep them happy, healthy, and ready for every adventure—book their next vaccination with your local Vet Balmain today.