5 Things Massachusetts Pet Owners Should Know About Pet Vaccinations

As a responsible pet owner in Massachusetts, ensuring your furry friend is up-to-date on vaccinations is one of the most important steps in keeping them healthy. Vaccines protect against potentially fatal diseases and also help prevent the spread of illnesses to other pets and even humans. However, navigating pet vaccinations can be confusing, especially with different laws, schedules, and recommendations. Here are five essential things every Massachusetts pet owner should know about vaccinating their pets.

1. Rabies Vaccination is Required by Massachusetts Law

Massachusetts state law mandates that all dogs, cats, and ferrets must receive a rabies vaccination by the age of six months. This law is in place because rabies is a fatal disease that can be transmitted to humans.

After the initial shot, pets must receive a booster within one year, followed by additional boosters every one to three years, depending on the vaccine type. Pet owners should always keep their rabies certificate up to date, as proof of vaccination may be required for licensing, boarding, or travel.

Tip: Some towns in Massachusetts host free or low-cost rabies vaccination clinics, so check with your local animal control or veterinary office.

2. Core and Non-Core Vaccines – Know the Difference

Pet vaccinations fall into two categories: core and non-core vaccines.

• Core vaccines are essential for all pets and protect against highly contagious and life-threatening diseases. For dogs, this includes rabies, distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, and adenovirus. For cats, core vaccines include rabies, feline calicivirus, herpesvirus, and panleukopenia.
• Non-core vaccines are optional and recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle, exposure risks, and local disease prevalence. Examples include Lyme disease, Bordetella (kennel cough), and feline leukemia (FeLV).

Your veterinarian can help determine which additional vaccines are necessary based on your pet’s activities. For example, dogs who hike in wooded areas of Massachusetts may benefit from the Lyme disease vaccine due to the high prevalence of ticks.

3. Vaccination Schedules Matter

Pets require vaccines at different stages of life to build and maintain immunity. Puppies and kittens typically start receiving vaccines around 6–8 weeks old, with boosters given every few weeks until about 16 weeks old. After that, booster shots are scheduled annually or every three years, depending on the specific vaccine.

For adult pets, keeping up with recommended boosters ensures long-term protection. Missing a booster could leave your pet vulnerable, so be sure to follow your veterinarian’s schedule.

Tip: Many veterinary clinics offer vaccine reminder services via email or text to help pet owners stay on track.

4. Some Vaccines Protect Against Zoonotic Diseases

Certain pet vaccines don’t just protect your pet—they also help safeguard humans from zoonotic diseases (those that can be transmitted between animals and humans).

For instance:

• Rabies is the most well-known zoonotic disease, and vaccination prevents the spread from pets to people.
• Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that spreads through contaminated water and urine, can affect both dogs and humans. Vaccinating your dog can reduce the risk of transmission.

If you have children, seniors, or immunocompromised individuals in your home, staying up to date on pet vaccinations can be an extra layer of protection for your family.

5. Massachusetts Boarding & Grooming Facilities Require Vaccines

If you plan to board your pet, take them to daycare, or use grooming services in Massachusetts, most facilities will require proof of certain vaccinations. Commonly required vaccines include:

• Dogs: Rabies, Bordetella (kennel cough), and sometimes canine influenza.
• Cats: Rabies and feline distemper (FVRCP).

Requirements may vary by facility, so always check ahead of time. Having updated records on hand will make check-ins smoother and prevent last-minute stress.

Tip: If you’re traveling out of state with your pet, research destination-specific vaccine requirements, as they may differ from Massachusetts laws.

Vaccinations are a critical part of responsible pet ownership, protecting your pet from serious diseases and ensuring public health safety. In Massachusetts, staying compliant with rabies laws, understanding core and non-core vaccines, and keeping up with your pet’s vaccination schedule will help keep your pet healthy and safe.

If you’re unsure about your pet’s vaccination needs, consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations. And remember—prevention is always better (and often cheaper) than treatment!

Do you have questions about pet vaccinations or need to schedule your pet’s next appointment? Reach out to us today!