Protecting your pet from preventable disease is one of the most important steps you can take for their health. At Mitten Animal Clinic in Kentwood, we provide safe and effective vaccinations for dogs and cats across Grand Rapids and the surrounding West Michigan communities. Whether you’ve just adopted a new puppy or kitten, or you’re making sure your adult pet stays protected, our veterinary team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Vaccinations protect your pet and your family, other animals, and the wider community. From serious diseases like rabies and parvovirus to everyday risks at dog parks, kennels, and grooming facilities, vaccines are the best line of defense. Many boarding and travel requirements also depend on proof of current vaccines, making it essential to keep your pet up to date.
Mitten Animal Clinic takes a personalized approach to every vaccination plan. Our veterinarians explain which shots your pet needs, when they should receive them, and how to stay on schedule for lasting protection. With gentle handling, a calm environment, and modern safety protocols, we make vaccine appointments quick, stress-free, and reassuring for both you and your pet.
Pets in Michigan are vulnerable to a range of diseases, some of which can spread quickly and become life-threatening. That’s why veterinarians recommend a combination of core vaccines (needed for every pet) and lifestyle vaccines (based on where your pet lives, plays, and travels).
required by Michigan law and vital for community safety.
protect against highly contagious and often deadly viruses.
Distemper, Parvovirus, and Adenovirus (DHPP)
protect against respiratory illness and life-threatening infection.
Pets in Michigan are vulnerable to a range of diseases, some of which can spread quickly and become life-threatening. That’s why veterinarians recommend a combination of core vaccines (needed for every pet) and lifestyle vaccines (based on where your pet lives, plays, and travels).
required by many boarding and grooming facilities.
recommended for dogs exposed to wooded or tick-heavy areas in Michigan.
protects dogs from a bacterial infection spread in standing water or soil.
advised for cats who go outdoors or live with other cats.
typically begin around 6–8 weeks of age.
are given every 3–4 weeks until about 16 weeks old.
during this stage include DHPP (distemper, parvo, adenovirus) and rabies, along with lifestyle vaccines like Bordetella if needed.
are usually started at 6–8 weeks of age.
follow every 3–4 weeks until about 16 weeks old.
include FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia) and rabies, with FeLV recommended for kittens at risk of outdoor exposure.
Because timing is so important, missing a booster can leave young pets unprotected. At Mitten Animal Clinic, we’ll set up a clear, easy-to-follow schedule so your new puppy or kitten stays on track.
required in Michigan; boosters are typically given every 1–3 years depending on the vaccine used.
often recommended annually, especially for dogs that board, go to dog parks, or spend time outdoors.
recommended for all cats, with boosters every 1–3 years.
At Mitten Animal Clinic, vaccine decisions are never one-size-fits-all. During your pet’s routine checkup, we’ll review their lifestyle and health to decide whether they need annual boosters or can safely follow a longer schedule.
Regular exams and timely boosters are the best way to keep your pet protected for life.
Most facilities in Grand Rapids and Kentwood require proof of rabies, distemper/parvo (DHPP for dogs, FVRCP for cats), and Bordetella for dogs.
Some may also ask for canine influenza or feline leukemia depending on the risk of exposure.
Airlines often require proof of rabies vaccination within the last year.
International travel may require additional vaccines or documentation; our team can help guide you through the requirements.
At Mitten Animal Clinic, we make it easy to stay on schedule so you’re never scrambling before a trip or boarding stay. We’ll provide updated vaccine records and answer any questions about what’s required for your plans.
Rabies, distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus (DHPP).
Rabies, feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia (FVRCP).
Bordetella (kennel cough), Lyme disease, Leptospirosis, canine influenza.
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV).
At Mitten Animal Clinic, we’ll talk through your pet’s daily life and exposures to build a personalized vaccine plan. That way your pet gets the protection they need, without unnecessary shots.
Vaccinations are one of the safest and most effective ways to protect your pet’s health. The diseases they prevent are far more dangerous than the mild side effects pets may occasionally experience after a shot.
These effects usually resolve quickly and don’t require treatment. Serious reactions are rare, but they can happen. Signs like persistent vomiting, swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, or collapse should be treated as an emergency and reported to a veterinarian immediately.
At Mitten Animal Clinic, we make vaccine safety our top priority. Every pet receives a pre-exam to ensure they’re healthy enough for shots, and we use high-quality vaccines with strict storage and handling standards. Our team monitors your pet closely and guides you on what to expect after the appointment.
The bottom line: the benefits of vaccines far outweigh the risks. Skipping vaccines leaves pets vulnerable to painful, preventable diseases that can spread quickly in our community.
Required by law for dogs in Michigan and strongly recommended for cats. Bats, a common carrier of rabies, can sometimes find their way indoors, putting indoor cats at risk.
Protects against highly contagious viruses that can spread on clothing, shoes, or through open windows.
May be recommended if your cat ever goes outside, stays with other cats, or if there’s a chance they could escape.
Skipping vaccines leaves indoor cats vulnerable to preventable illness. At Mitten Animal Clinic, we’ll help you decide which vaccines are necessary based on your cat’s environment and lifestyle, but core protection is always recommended.
Even indoor pets deserve the peace of mind that comes with lasting protection.
Before giving any shots, our veterinarians perform a brief physical exam to ensure your pet is healthy enough for vaccines.
We’ll explain what to expect at home, including mild side effects that may appear and when to call us if anything seems unusual.
You’ll receive updated vaccination records, which are often required for boarding, grooming, or travel.
Most appointments are completed in less than 30 minutes, and pets typically go home acting like themselves right away. You’ll leave with peace of mind knowing your pet is protected against preventable diseases.
Tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease are common in Michigan’s wooded areas, while Leptospirosis can spread in standing water after heavy rains.
Boarding facilities, groomers, and daycare centers around Kentwood and Grand Rapids often require Bordetella and rabies for entry.
Costs vary depending on your pet’s age, size, and the number of vaccines needed. Call us at (616) 957-4291 for current pricing and package options.
