Dog Vaccination Schedule

Core Vaccines (Essential for all dogs)

• Parvovirus (CPV): Very contagious; causes severe bloody diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration. Often fatal in puppies.
• Distemper (CDV): Airborne virus attacking the lungs, brain, and gut. Aggressive and frequently lethal.
• Canine Hepatitis (CAV): Attacks the liver and kidneys.
• Leptospirosis (L2 or L4): Bacterial disease contracted from rat urine in water (puddles, canals). Damages kidneys/liver. Transmissible to humans (Weil’s disease).

Non-Core (Context dependent)

• Kennel Cough: Protects against Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza. Given as a squirt up the nose. Essential if your dog is boarding or attends day-care.
• Rabies: Only required if travelling outside the UK.

The Dog Schedule

• 8 weeks old: 1st primary injection
• 10-12 weeks old: 2nd primary injection (fully protected 2-4 weeks later)
• 1 year old: 1st Annual Booster (covers all core diseases)
• Subsequent Years: Leptospirosis requires an annual booster. DHP (Distemper, Hep, Parvo) immunity lasts much longer, so those elements are typically only boosted every 3 years.

Cat Vaccination Schedule

Core Vaccines

• Feline Parvovirus (FPV / Panleukopenia): Highly contagious, causes severe gastrointestinal disease; rapid death in kittens.
• Cat Flu (FCV & FHV): Feline Calicivirus and Feline Herpesvirus cause severe respiratory issues, sneezing, and mouth ulcers.

Non-Core (Usually Essential for Outdoor Cats)

• Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV): Spread by biting and mutual grooming. Causes immune suppression, anaemia, and cancer. Vets generally consider this “core” for any cat that goes outside. Indoor-only cats in single-cat households may skip this pending vet advice.

The Cat Schedule

• 9 weeks old: 1st primary injection
• 12 weeks old: 2nd primary injection
• Annual Booster: Required yearly. Cat flu elements need annual topping up. FeLV frequency depends on the specific vaccine brand (some are 1 year, some 3 years).

Average UK Vet Costs (2026)

Expect some variation based on location (London vs North) and clinic type.

Tip: Many vets offer “Pet Health Clubs” for around £15-£20 a month, which split the cost of annual vaccinations, flea/worming treatments, and health checks across the year. This often works out cheaper than paying ad-hoc.

FAQs

Are vaccines a scam? My dog never gets sick.

Your dog doesn’t get sick because of “herd immunity.” Because the vast majority of UK owners vaccinate, horrible diseases like Distemper have been driven to very low levels. However, outbreaks of Parvovirus still happen regularly in the UK in areas where vaccination rates drop, and unvaccinated puppies almost always die from it. Vaccinations are a fundamental pillar of responsible pet ownership.

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Highway Code Rule 57

The foundation of pet travel law in the UK is Rule 57 of the Highway Code, which states:

“When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.”

The Penalties for Breaking the Rules

While there is no direct penalty for breaching Rule 57 itself, the police will use it to prosecute you for more serious driving offences if your dog is unrestrained.

• Driving without due care and attention: If an unrestrained dog distracts you, police can issue an on-the-spot fine of £100 and 3 penalty points.
• If it goes to court: The charge can escalate. Fines can reach a maximum of £5,000, up to 9 penalty points on your licence, and even a driving ban or compulsory re-testing.
• Invalidated Car Insurance: If you are involved in an accident and your dog was unrestrained, most UK insurers will rule that you were driving negligently, invalidating your insurance policy entirely. They will refuse to pay for repairs or medical claims.

Approved Restraint Methods

To comply with the law and keep everyone safe, you must use one of the following methods:

1. Seat Belt Harness

Similar to a walking harness but much sturdier, it plugs directly into the car’s seatbelt socket.
Tip: Look for crash-tested harnesses (e.g., Kurgo, Sleepypod) that feature broad chest plates to distribute force in an impact. Never attach a seatbelt clip to a dog’s collar—this can cause fatal neck injuries.

2. Dog Cage or Crate

The safest option, particularly when placed in the boot of an estate or SUV. The crate itself should be securely strapped down so it doesn’t become a projectile. Custom-fitted, crash-tested crates (like those from TransK9 or MIMsafe) offer the highest level of protection.

3. Dog Guard

A metal mesh or tubular barrier rigidly fitted between the boot space and the passenger area. While it stops the dog flying forward to hit the driver, it offers less protection for the dog itself during a lateral collision compared to a crate or harness.

4. Pet Carrier

Suitable for small dogs and cats. Ensure the carrier is secured with a seatbelt or wedged securely in the footwell behind the front seats, so it cannot slide or flip over.

FAQs

Can my dog sit in the front passenger seat?

Yes, but it is highly discouraged. If they must sit in the front, they must be securely harnessed, and you must disable the passenger-side airbag. An deploying airbag impacts a dog with enough force to cause severe or fatal injuries. They must not obstruct your view of the mirrors or the road.

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Lily Poisoning — The #1 Cat-Specific Emergency

ALL parts of lilies are highly toxic to cats — flowers, leaves, stems, pollen, even the water from the vase. Ingesting even a tiny amount can cause fatal kidney failure.

• Even grooming pollen off their fur is enough to cause toxicity
• Symptoms: Vomiting, loss of appetite, drooling, increased drinking, twitching, seizures
• Action: Contact your vet IMMEDIATELY — even if your cat seems fine. Early aggressive treatment (IV fluids, activated charcoal) is the only chance
• There is no antidote. Prevention is key: never have lilies in a household with cats

Road Traffic Accident (RTA)

• Move the cat as little as possible — wrap gently in a towel or blanket and place in a carrier or box
• Call your vet ahead so they can prepare for your arrival
• Even if injuries look minor, always get a vet check — internal injuries (lung bruising, organ damage) can develop hours later
• If bleeding, apply firm pressure with a clean cloth during transport

Seizures / Fitting

• DO NOT restrain your cat or put fingers in their mouth
• Clear obstacles away, dim lights, keep the room quiet
• If on a high surface, gently move to the floor wrapped in a thick towel
• Time the seizure and video it if possible — this helps your vet enormously
• Call your vet immediately if the seizure lasts more than 2–3 minutes or if multiple seizures occur

Other Common Poisons

• Antifreeze (ethylene glycol): Sweet taste attracts cats. Causes kidney failure. Vet emergency
• Human medications: Paracetamol is fatal to cats — even one tablet can kill. Ibuprofen is also toxic
• Permethrin: Found in dog flea products — highly toxic to cats (see our flea treatment guide)
• Animal PoisonLine: 01202 509 000 (24/7)

FAQs

My cat was hit by a car but seems fine — should I still see a vet?

Yes, always. Cats are extraordinary at masking pain. Internal injuries — particularly lung bruising, ruptured bladder, or internal bleeding — may not show symptoms for hours. Adrenaline masks pain in the immediate aftermath. A cat that walks away from an RTA can die hours later from injuries that weren’t visible externally. Always get a thorough veterinary examination including monitoring for delayed complications.

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Poisoning

• Common poisons: chocolate, grapes/raisins, xylitol (sweetener), slug pellets, antifreeze, ibuprofen, rat poison
• DO NOT make your dog vomit unless specifically told to by a vet
• Note what was eaten, how much, and when
• Animal PoisonLine: 01202 509 000 (24/7, £35–45 per case) — they assess whether a vet visit is needed
• Take packaging/photos to the vet

Bloat / GDV (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)

This is the most time-critical canine emergency. Fatal within hours without surgery.

• Signs: Unproductive retching (trying to vomit, only white foam), swollen/hard belly, restlessness, drooling, collapse
• Most common in large, deep-chested breeds (Great Danes, German Shepherds, Boxers, Setters)
• Action: Call your emergency vet immediately. Drive straight there. Do NOT give food/water or massage the belly

Heatstroke

Rule: Cool first, transport second.

• Signs: Excessive panting, bright red gums, drooling, vomiting, collapse, seizures
• Move to shade/cool area immediately
• Pour/spray cool (NOT ice-cold) water over body — focus on neck, belly, thighs. Use a fan if available
• Do NOT use ice or ice-cold water — this constricts blood vessels and traps heat
• Transport to vet once cooling has started

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

For dogs that have stopped breathing and have no heartbeat:

• A — Airway: Tilt head back gently, open mouth, clear any obstruction
• B — Breathing: Close mouth, seal your lips over nostrils, give 2 rescue breaths (watch chest rise)
• C — Circulation: 30 chest compressions at 100–120/min (rhythm of “Stayin’ Alive”), then 2 breaths. Repeat
• Continue until you reach a vet or the dog regains consciousness

FAQs

When should I go to an emergency vet?

Go immediately if your dog has: difficulty breathing, collapse, suspected poisoning, bloat symptoms, continuous seizures, severe bleeding, inability to urinate, or major trauma. Don’t wait — call ahead so the vet team can prepare. Most practices have an out-of-hours number that redirects to an emergency service.

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Vaccinations — Critical Update for 2026

• Rabbits need protection against three diseases: Myxomatosis, RVHD1, and RVHD2
• 2026 update: A “highly virulent” new strain of RVHD2 has been identified in Europe. Two separate vaccinations are now recommended annually — a combined Myxo/RVHD1/RVHD2 vaccine PLUS a separate RVHD2-specific vaccine, given 2+ weeks apart
• Even indoor rabbits must be vaccinated — the viruses spread via insects, wild rabbits, and contaminated surfaces (shoes, clothing)
• Vaccinations can start from 5–7 weeks of age

Housing

• RWAF minimum: 3m × 2m × 1m high for a pair — continuously accessible. A hutch is only a shelter, not a home
• Hutch minimum: 6ft × 2ft × 2ft (1.8m × 0.6m × 0.6m) attached to a larger secure run
• Outdoor runs must be predator-proof: 16-gauge wire minimum, protection against digging
• Indoor rabbits need the same minimum space, even with free-roaming access

Diet — 80–90% Hay

• Unlimited hay: Timothy Hay or Meadow Hay — essential for digestion and dental wear (teeth grow ~2mm/week)
• Small amount of fresh leafy greens daily
• Limited pellets — approximately one eggcup per rabbit per day
• Avoid muesli-style food — rabbits selectively feed, causing nutritional imbalances

Neutering

• 90% of unneutered female rabbits develop uterine cancer by age 5 — spaying is essential
• UK costs: Males £110–185, Females £215–225
• Males can be castrated from 10–12 weeks; females spayed around 4–5 months

FAQs

Can rabbits live alone?

No — rabbits are social animals that suffer from loneliness when kept solo. The ideal pairing is a neutered male and a neutered female, bonded gradually on neutral territory. Same-sex pairs can work, especially if from the same litter. Bonding takes days to months and requires patience. Once bonded, rabbits should never be separated — even vet visits should include both together.

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Core Vaccination Schedule (2026)

What the vaccines protect against

• Distemper: Attacks the nervous system, respiratory system and gut. Often fatal. Rare in the UK now because of vaccination
• Hepatitis (Adenovirus): Attacks the liver and kidneys. Can be fatal within hours in severe cases
• Parvovirus: Devastating gut disease causing severe bloody diarrhoea and dehydration. Survives in the environment for months. Still kills unvaccinated puppies in the UK every year
• Leptospirosis: Bacterial infection spread by rat urine and contaminated water. Attacks kidneys and liver. Can be transmitted to humans (zoonotic). Annual booster essential — immunity wanes faster than DHP

When Can My Puppy Go Outside?

Your puppy is safe to walk on public ground 1–2 weeks after their second vaccination (typically around 12–14 weeks of age). This allows their immune system to develop full protection.

Before this point:

• ✅ Your own secure garden (if no unvaccinated dog/fox access)
• ✅ Carrying your puppy in public (socialisation without ground contact)
• ✅ Friends’ gardens with fully vaccinated dogs
• ❌ No pavements, parks, pet shops, or any ground where unknown dogs walk

Non-Core Vaccines

Kennel Cough (Bordetella + Parainfluenza)

A nasal spray vaccine protecting against the most common causes of infectious tracheobronchitis. Recommended if your puppy will attend:

• Daycare, boarding kennels, dog shows, training classes, busy parks
• Given as a single nasal dose; typically repeated annually
• Not a legal requirement but often required by kennels and daycare facilities

Rabies

Rabies does not exist in the UK. Vaccination is only required if you plan to travel abroad with your dog. Can be given from 12 weeks. Required for the Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for EU travel.

Booster Schedule

FAQs

Can I skip the Leptospirosis vaccine?

Some owners consider it because Lepto vaccines can occasionally cause mild side effects (lethargy, mild swelling at injection site). However, Leptospirosis is present throughout the UK — anywhere rats have been — and is both potentially fatal to dogs and transmissible to humans. The BSAVA and major UK vet bodies recommend vaccination. If you have concerns, discuss with your vet, but the risk of the disease far outweighs the risk of the vaccine.

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Vaccinating kittens

A kitten will need its first set of vaccinations at nine weeks old. This means it may be the responsibility of the breeder if you’re adopting your kitten at 10 weeks old. They will then need their second doses at three months old. A kitten should not be allowed outside until they have had all of their vaccinations, and have been neutered.

Vaccinating adult cats

After their initial kitten vaccinations, an adult cat will need a booster vaccination every year. This is usually done as just one vaccination, so is quick and simple. It can be done at the same time as their annual vet checkup.

What diseases do cat vaccines protect against?

With a vaccine, cats are commonly protected against:

• cat flu (feline herpes virus and feline calicivirus)
• feline infectious enteritis
• feline parvovirus (FPV)

The vaccine to protect against the feline leukaemia virus is not part of the core vaccine. But it is highly recommended for cats who go outside. Therefore, most cats will need it. Many vet practices offer it as an all-in-one, but it does cost slightly more.

Cat flu

Cat flu is a generalised term for what is actually a very serious upper respiratory disease. It is highly contagious, and the virus shows symptoms that are not unlike that of a human cold. Key symptoms include:

• sneezing
• discharge from the eyes or nose
• fever
• breathing issues
• coughing
• fatigue
• loss of appetite

If the condition is left to worsen, it can cause issues with blindness, pneumonia and death. Cats can become severely debilitated in older life. Kittens and older cats are mostly affected, due to their weaker immune systems. Cat flu is often spread through direct contact and bodily fluids (such as saliva or nasal discharge). But it can also be spread indirectly through contaminated food bowls, bedding, litter and human contact. To treat cat flu, plenty of rest and fluids are needed. Any infected cats must be kept separately from other cats. Recovery often takes up to two weeks. Sometimes, there is no need for veterinary intervention, but you may have to get some help if your cat stops eating and drinking and requires an intravenous drip. Vets can also prescribe some antibiotics to prevent secondary infections, caused by their weaker immune systems. Because cats can commonly be affected for life by this respiratory disease, it is vital they are vaccinated as early as possible to limit infection and the risk of illness.

Lifelong carriers of cat flu

Some cats who have had feline flu can actually become lifelong carriers of the illness. This means the flu is ‘shed’ during periods of high stress, such as if at the vets or in a cattery. They don’t show signs of the illness, however. This is why, if you take your cat to a cattery or let them socialise with other cats, it is vital to be responsible and ensure your cat is protected. You will also want to regularly wash your cat’s bedding, dishes and toys to prevent any shed disease from spreading to other cats in the home.

Feline infectious enteritis

Also known as parvovirus or Panleukopenia Virus, FIE is a disease caused by infection of parvovirus. It is also referred to as the panleukopenia virus because an infected cat will develop a low white blood cell count. Infection carries a very high mortality rate, especially in cats who have not been vaccinated. Parvoviruses are particularly dangerous as they can survive for years in the environment without being detected. FIE is spread by direct faecal-oral contact and contamination of the environment or equipment. Cats infected with FPV can continue to shed the virus for at least six weeks following infection, and the virus can also be transmitted by dogs. It is an infection that all rescue centres are always very high on alert for, due to how resilient it is and how rapidly it spreads. An infection will show symptoms such as:

• gastroenteritis
• haemorrhagic vomiting and diarrhoea
• damage to the lining of the intestine
• viral infection (via the blood to the bone marrow and lymph glands)
• fever
• depression
• lack of eating

Unfortunately, some cats die before showing any of these signs. Because their white blood cells are depleted due to the viral infection, cats who do show signs commonly pick up other secondary diseases before it is spotted, too. There is no treatment. Cats must be isolated, with humans wearing protective clothing. Affected cats can die with dehydration and weakness, so intravenous fluids and a broad spectrum of antibiotics are crucial. But it doesn’t guarantee any form of recovery. Anti-emetic drugs may be given to stop vomiting. Interferon products may be given if a cat shows signs of potential recovery. These have an antiviral effect in the body. Most cats will need lifelong care if they recover, so pet insurance is vital. The only way to prevent it is through vaccination.

Infection during pregnancy

Pregnant Queens with parvovirus will pass it on to their kittens. They are then commonly infected with cerebellar hypoplasia. The cerebellum is the part of the brain associated with coordination, so affected kittens are very wobbly and uncoordinated. The infection leads to uncoordinated movement, or ataxia. This is a neurological disorder. Some or all of the kittens in the litter can be affected, and kittens can also pick it up in the first few weeks of their lives. There is no treatment for cerebellar hypoplasia, but symptoms usually do not worsen. Therefore, a cat can learn to live with this disability. Any potential owners will need to be mindful about helping them out and possibly keeping them indoors depending on the severity. The life expectancy of a cat with hypoplasia is the same as one without.

Feline leukaemia virus

FeLV in cats is incurable. It eventually produces fatal illnesses in infected cats. According to the Blue Cross, between 1 and 2% of all cats in the UK are FeLV positive, and most die within four years. Because cats can still live for a few years after diagnosis, it is classed as a virus they can live with. But it drastically cuts most cats’ lives short. Initial symptoms are fatigue and a fever, so it is hard to spot straight away. More serious symptoms will start to develop within just a few months though, with the main effect being the depletion of white blood cells in the cat’s body. This leaves them much more susceptible to picking up secondary infections and struggling to fight them off. Because the initial signs are often tricky to spot, or may not arouse suspicion, more common signs are:

• weight loss
• fever
• lethargy
• issues with balance and walking (nervous system)
• recurrent diarrhoea

Anaemia is common for FeLV+ cats to develop, and produces lethargy, weakness and paleness of the gums and tongue. Cancers of the white blood cells (called lymphosarcomas) can also develop. Around 20% of all FeLV-infected cats die from cancer.

Diagnosing cats with feline leukaemia

FeLV is diagnosed through blood tests. However, this is not a simple procedure. False negatives and false positives are common, so you may need to repeatedly test your cat or send results off to a laboratory. Labs use different testing methods which increases reliability versus in-house vet practices. Recently exposed cats can test positive despite actually being clear of the virus. Therefore, a second test will be needed around 12 weeks after the first. If a cat is positive but seems healthy, another test will be offered. For cats who are clearly sick, however, a positive result likely means they are indeed positive.

Is there a vaccination for the feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)?

Even though they sound similar, FeLV and FIV are two very different diseases taxonomically. There is currently no vaccine to protect your cat against FIV. Vaccines do exist, but their reliability and safety are unknown. They have been used in the USA but were not approved for use in the UK. Therefore, keeping your cat away from FIV infected cats and ensuring your cat is neutered (to prevent fighting and mating) is key, You can read more about the feline immunodeficiency virus in our guide.

How much do cat vaccinations cost?

Prices vary between vet practices and where you reside. According to Bought By Many, the initial cost of core kitten vaccinations (and for feline leukaemia) is around £73. FeLV is not a core vaccine, but over 96% of vet practices offer it as part of their core package. It is cheaper to get a vaccine that doesn’t include this, but we don’t think it is worth the risk, especially as it is a fatal disease. On average, an annual booster is around £49 in the UK. So, it is worth keeping these up-to-date as it is cheaper than the restart costs. It is cheaper in the long run to protect your cat against the illnesses above, versus trying to treat the,, which could cost thousands of pounds and result in lifelong medication.

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Vaccinating puppies

When dogs are puppies, they must be vaccinated in the first few weeks of their lives. Some may be the responsibility of the breeder, and others will fall in the timeframe that they are in their new home. Puppies are typically vaccinated at eight and ten weeks with the second dose usually being given two to four weeks later. It is really important that the second dose is given as without it, your puppy won’t be able to go outside. Your puppy will then require a booster vaccination at 6 or 12 months. As your puppy becomes an adult dog, you need to make regular visits to the vets to keep their vaccinations up to date.

Vaccinating adult dogs

Dogs must have regular vaccinations to ensure they remain healthy and strong throughout their lives. It prevents them from picking up any diseases or illnesses and also limits the spread of these illnesses. Boosters usually occur annually. All are commonly given at once, and your dog may also be able to have their annual checkup at the same time. If vaccinations are kept up to date and on time, it keeps their immune system healthy and ticking over. However, if too much time passes between doses, you may need to restart their vaccinations.

Which diseases are dogs protected against with vaccinations?

Dogs are protected against four main diseases with vaccinations and then have the additional option to be protected against kennel cough.

Canine parvovirus

A virus that is spread by the infected faeces from another dog. The virus can survive in the area for nine months. Parvovirus usually affects puppies between six weeks and six months of age but can also affect adult dogs who haven’t had their regular vaccinations. Puppies who are affected at a very young age can develop heart problems and die.

Symptoms

• Severe vomiting and diarrhoea
• Haemorrhagic gastroenteritis (bloody faeces)
• Severe dehydration
• White blood cell count drops, leaving their immune systems weak and susceptible to secondary infections

Treatment

There is no specific treatment. A dog with suspected parvovirus can be put on a drip. This will give them medication to prevent secondary infections and stop vomiting. A drip will heavily increase their chances of survival, but it is still often a fatal disease.

Canine distemper

A virus that is spread by all bodily secretions from an infected animal. Commonly, this is saliva. It is usually spread by direct contact, and other mammals such as ferrets can also become infected. Those with severe symptoms commonly die. Any with mild infections can recover, but will often develop neurological issues later in life. This is known as ‘old dog encephalitis’.

Symptoms

The symptoms of the canine distemper virus can vary wildly from relatively mild health issues to serious illness, which is why it is vital your dog is protected.

• Fever
• Depression
• Coughing, vomiting and diarrhoea
• Discharge from eyes and mouth
• Muscle tics
• Difficulty walking
• Seizures
• Eye problems
• The thickening of the skin on the nose and pads – distemper is also called ‘hard pad’

Treatment

There is no common treatment for distemper. Fluids can help with dehydration and medication can help control seizures and tics, but other symptoms are untreatable.

Leptospirosis

Lepto is a disease caused by bacteria. Contaminated water is the main way it is spread. In the UK, the main two strains are carried by dogs and rats, so dogs are particularly at risk if they swim or drink from stagnant water near where rats are. Water that cows use can also carry the bacteria. Infected urine can also spread leptospirosis. In humans, leptospirosis infection can lead to Weil’s disease. It can also be fatal

Symptoms

• Fever
• Lethargy
• Thirst
• Vomiting
• Haemorrhagic gastroenteritis
• Jaundice
• Kidney and liver infection

Kidney and liver failure occurs in the most severe infections, but dogs at this stage will most definitely die.

Treatment

Antibiotics and IV drips can help get a dog with lepto back to full health, but only if the infection isn’t too severe. Their urine will carry the bacteria for months even after they have a full bill of health, however. So, it is vital neither humans nor other animals come directly in contact with it.

Infectious canine hepatitis (ICH)

ICH, also known as adenovirus, is spread by the infected saliva, blood, nasal discharge, faeces or urine of other dogs. There are two variations. One causes hepatitis (infection of the liver) and the other causes something similar to kennel cough.

Symptoms

• Lethargy
• Coughing
• Vomiting and diarrhoea
• Fever
• Abdominal pain
• Jaundice

The above symptoms mean it is very similar to the other diseases on the list, often giving a crossover, so it can be hard to spot.

Treatment

Again there is no specific treatment for ICH. However, if your dog is showing symptoms, these can be treated separately. Beyond this, there are no long-term effects, so most dogs will recover.

Kennel cough

Kennel cough is not a core vaccine, like those above. It is optional but highly recommended for any dog who spends a lot of time around other dogs. In the UK, the kennel cough vaccine is given annually. This is often at the same time as your dog is given booster injections. It is administered intra-nasally with the vet squirting it gently up the dog’s nose. The kennel cough vaccine will not protect your dog from all strains of the virus, but it will still go a long way towards helping protect them if they mix regularly. It is particularly important for any dog with underlying health issues, particularly respiratory. Many doggy day care centres and kennels will ask for proof that your dog has been vaccinated against kennel cough. You can read more, including prevention and treatment, in our kennel cough guide.

How much are dog vaccinations?

Dog vaccinations can cost a range of prices. It can depend on what the vaccination is, and the cost your clinic sets based on the practice rules and where you live. Bought By Many found that the average cost of the first set of vaccinations for a puppy is £68. Kennel cough is usually not included in this, as an optional extra. The cost for kennel cough on top can range from around £10 to nearly £70. Many vet practices will offer a discount on kennel cough if all are given at the same time, both during initial vaccinations and boosters. The cost of boosters is often slightly cheaper. If your dog has missed their annual booster vaccinations, you may have to pay for a course of primary vaccines to catch them back up again. Ask your vet the best approach, however – they may recommend titre blood testing to see if immunity is still present. However, this is often around the same cost as vaccinations anyway. Either way, the cost of annual vaccinations will likely be a lot cheaper than treatment for any of the potential infections and diseases. This could run into thousands of pounds if overnight vet stays and long-term medication is required. You should always have suitable pet insurance to cover these emergencies.

Are vaccinations covered by pet insurance?

Vaccination costs won’t be covered through pet insurance, no. But if your dog is vaccinated, some insurance companies could offer a cheaper policy.

How long do vaccinations last?

The time a vaccine lasts can vary. However, most vets recommend that you attend their practice for boosters annually, which is a good generalised meet-in-the-middle point for them all. Immunity weakens over time, so it is vital you keep up to date with the vaccination records.

Rehoming a dog through a charity

The majority of charities will ensure dogs are fully vaccinated before they leave to come and live with their new owners. Adoption fees will go towards the costs of these vaccines, so it is a great way to keep initial costs low for you. Any dogs taken into a rehoming charity who were abused, abandoned or taken away from their previous owners will likely not have full vaccination records, so it is a good way to get their vaccinations started.

Taking your dog abroad

If you are taking your dog abroad, there are compulsory vaccinations and paperwork that must be completed before you even pack your bags. It does depend on your final destination, but in general, you will need a rabies vaccination. Your vet needs proof that your pet’s at least 12 weeks old before vaccinating them against rabies. They must also be microchipped before their vaccination or at the same time. Otherwise, they will need to be vaccinated again. If you’re taking your pet to the EU or Northern Ireland, you must wait 21 days after the primary vaccination before you travel. The vaccine needs to be approved in the country you’re travelling to. You also need to have a pet passport or health record which shows their vaccination history. Some countries will also require other vaccinations. Rabies vaccinations require a booster every year. It is easier to carry out this booster if there is potential you will travel again with your pet, rather than restarting their vaccinations.

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Do I need dog insurance?

Choosing whether to get dog insurance is entirely your choice, but in our opinion, it’s a smart idea. Veterinary care is incredibly expensive, and so is medicine. Insurance will cover vet fees as well as certain medical expenses. According to Tesco Bank, treating a small dog such as a Chihuahua for vomiting and diarrhoea can be over £600 alone. This is only a short-term illness and can be quite common and unexpected. Ongoing treatment for a cruciate rupture in a large dog can cost on average £2,485. Then, there could be long-term health issues that develop as a result and also need close monitoring. So unless you do have large savings set aside, it is just good sense to get dog insurance. It may feel like a waste of money if your dog is healthy at the moment, but you can never predict the future.

How do I choose the right dog insurance?

Once you have given over your dog’s age, breed and health history, the decision is then which level of cover to buy. When choosing insurance, you will be given the choice of three different types of policies in general:

Accident Only

Accident-only pet insurance is the cheapest and most basic form. It doesn’t cover illness, only injuries. The policies will pay out a fixed sum of money for each accidental injury. This will help pay for your pet’s treatment but after twelve months the payments will usually stop. So, if you have a breed that is predisposed to suffering certain illnesses, it may not be good enough.

Non-Lifetime Cover

There are two types of cover here – Time-Limited or Per-Condition. Time-limited pet insurance covers accidents as well as new conditions. But the accidents and illnesses are only covered for a certain time period (commonly 12 months). This is the cheapest way to get an accident and illness cover for a lower price. However, if your dog needs continuous treatment after this time period ends, it won’t be covered. This condition will also now be classed as pre-existing, which could affect the cost of your premiums. Per-Condition pet insurance will usually give you a price limit per condition, rather than for a set time. So, there may be a limit of £5,000 when it comes to eye conditions. If Jack the Terrier suffers from an eye condition, the maximum you can claim over the course of the policy is £5,000, and once that limit is reached, you can claim no more for both the same condition or future conditions.

Lifetime Cover

These are the most popular and the most comprehensive forms of pet insurance. They will pay out indefinitely for illness over the course of your dog’s life, unlike non-lifetime policies. But like the non-lifetime cover, lifetime cover comes as either an Annual Policy or Per Condition Policy. An annual policy will pay out up to a certain limit every year for any illness, say £5,000. Once a new year starts, this monetary cap is reset. A Per Condition policy will pay an annual limit for each condition. Again, a new year means the limit resets. Which you decide on depends on your pet. If their breed is susceptible to a certain illness, such as hip issues, then a Per-Condition policy could allow you to also claim for another issue if needed – although it will cost you much more in premiums.

How much is dog insurance?

Dog insurance can vary depending on:

• Age
• Breed
• Gender
• Predisposed conditions
• What’s included in the policy and what level of cover you choose

The cheapest policies can start at around £5 per month, and the more expensive policies for large or designer breeds and full coverage can be nearer £100 per month.

What should I look for in a dog insurance policy?

As well as the type and duration of cover you get, there are some essentials and some extra add-ons that may be worth paying that little bit more for depending on your needs.

Pay Out and Excess Fee

The average pet insurance claim in 2026 was £817, according to the Association of British Insurers. On average, the most expensive treatment a vet will offer is cruciate ligament damage for a large dog over 50kg. This will reach around £2,894. It will still cost a miniature dog up to 5kg almost £2,000 for the same treatment, surprisingly. So, we’d recommend looking for a policy that gives you cover for £3,000 of vet fees at the very least. Excess can often be decided by the policyholder, but larger excess can mean lower monthly policy premiums. At the same time, paying £2 more per month might be easier for you than paying a larger excess if the time comes. Expect anywhere between £100 and £500.

Support and Stress-Free Claims

If the insurer is notorious for making claims handling difficult, it will cause you much more stress. So looking at the kind of customer support that an insurer offers is so important. Easy processes like a 24-hour claims service, a digital claim service or an advice line will make those situations more straightforward; some providers even let you track the claim process in real-time, which is impressive. Look at customer reviews. If there are many saying claims were turned down, or that claims took ages to be paid, it could be worth swerving the company.

Third-Party Cover

Third-party insurance is not essential but if your dog is quite energetic or sometimes unpredictable around dogs, it may be a worthwhile consideration. This covers any damage your dog may cause to someone else’s property or to their dog. While you probably can’t imagine your dog ever doing that, it’s still good to have yourself protected from any kind of legal action being taken against you.

Death By Accident or Sickness

Never something that you want to think about, but some policies will cover the cost of euthanasia and cremation, which can be fairly expensive. This is especially important to have as part of your insurance because it’s inevitable, and so it makes sense to ensure that the difficult time will be as manageable as possible.

Emergency Boarding Cover

This isn’t always something that policies offer as standard, but it’s definitely worth considering as an add-on, especially if you don’t have a family to rely on. If you have an emergency, such as an A&E trip for a few days, this could save you a hefty dog boarding bill and ensure your dog is being taken care of. Some policies don’t have limitations on cost or type of boarding either.

Cover for Accidents Abroad

Most people don’t take their pets on holiday, especially now the rules on travelling in the EU have changed, but if you do love spending time abroad as a family it could be worth adding this to your policy. It will give you access to vets in your country of choice.

Missing Pet Cover

We hope this never happens, but this will help cover all the expenses required in looking for your dog. It can include posters and advertisements, searches by professionals, and any other resources needed to find your dog. This can either be loss from them slipping their lead on a walk or from theft. There has been a staggering rise in dognapping and in order to be fully prepared, you may want to make sure that money won’t be a roadblock in finding your dog.

Additional Considerations

With some policies, you can also get perks and discounts from retail shops, as well as behavioural treatment, legal advice, bereavement counselling and a 24/7 video vet. A few of these won’t be add-ons you can pick, but rather perks of certain companies. Therefore, it could be worth going with a name you know and trust to get these extras.

Final Note

It’s always good to use comparison websites in order to get the best deal, but before you commit to a policy, check independent reviews from customers. Look at reviews to see how they treat loyal customers; for example, do they regularly change the price of the policy? Do they have a history of being helpful and accessible, or do they make it difficult to make a claim? Check out Pet Insurance Reviews and Trustpilot for real, honest reviews from dog owners just like you. And from the team here at Petz, good luck with the process of finding the right insurer!

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