18/08/2025
Thoughts on vaccination / over vaccination – I now only vaccinate every 3 years. What do you do?
Here’s why:
C3 is the true “core” vaccine (distemper, parvo, hepatitis). For years it was given annually, but it’s now proven effective for a minimum of 3 years once the puppy shots + first annual booster are done. Annual C3 boosters = unnecessary over-vaccination.
Most clinics no longer even offer C3. It still exists, but many vets only stock C4 or C5. Why? Because kennel cough (the add-on in C4/C5) only lasts 12 months. By rolling kennel cough into the “default” vaccine, they keep you coming back yearly.
Kennel cough is rarely serious. For most healthy dogs it’s a mild, self-limiting illness — yet it’s the reason many vets say you “must” vaccinate annually.
Over-vaccination is a real concern. Repeated unnecessary shots add risk without adding protection.
👉 Three-yearly vaccination for the core C3 is supported by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), and this is written clearly in their published guidelines.
That said — I do still believe in annual health checks, and I think kennel cough cover can be worthwhile for elderly, immune-compromised, or boarding/show dogs. But for most pets, a 3-yearly C3 makes far more sense than the annual C4/C5 treadmill.
⚠️ This is my personal opinion based on research and experience — always seek professional veterinary advice for your own dog’s individual needs.
