Vaccination is the single most effective health intervention available for most pets. The diseases we vaccinate against, including parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis and feline panleukopenia, are often fatal and entirely preventable. At OC Pets we follow international vaccination guidelines and adapt protocols to each pet's lifestyle, age and exposure risk. We also offer VacciCheck antibody titer testing for owners who want confirmation of immunity before revaccinating.
Core Vaccines for Dogs in the UAE
Every dog should be protected against canine distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus (hepatitis) and parainfluenza, combined in the standard DHPPi vaccine. Rabies vaccination is required for UAE residency and mandatory for any international travel.
Leptospirosis vaccination is recommended for dogs with outdoor exposure or contact with standing water, which is not uncommon even in urban Dubai. Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccination is required by most boarding facilities and strongly advised for dogs attending training classes, dog parks or grooming salons.
Core Vaccines for Cats
Cats receive protection against feline herpesvirus, calicivirus and panleukopenia through the FVRCP combination vaccine. These diseases spread easily and panleukopenia in particular is highly lethal in unvaccinated cats.
FeLV (feline leukaemia) vaccination is advised for cats with outdoor access or contact with other cats whose FeLV status is unknown. We follow the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) guidelines when scheduling boosters to avoid unnecessary over-vaccination while maintaining protective immunity.
VacciCheck Antibody Titer Testing
VacciCheck is an in-house blood test that measures your pet's actual antibody levels against core diseases. Rather than assuming a booster is needed because a year has passed, titer testing tells us whether your dog or cat already has adequate circulating immunity.
This is particularly valuable for dogs with vaccine reaction histories, pets adopted as adults with unknown histories and breeders monitoring their animals. A high titer means revaccination is not urgently needed. A low titer means a booster is warranted. Results are available within the same appointment, with no laboratory waiting time.
Pet Passport and Travel Documentation
If you are relocating internationally with your pet or returning home, the paperwork requirements can be stressful to navigate. We handle the full UAE pet passport process, including proper timing of vaccinations and treatments for your destination country, official health certificates signed by our licensed veterinarians and guidance on country-specific requirements.
EU export documentation requires rabies vaccinations to be correctly timed relative to the travel date, and the health certificate must be issued within a specific window. The UK, Australia and New Zealand have some of the most complex import requirements. Start this process at least two to three months before your travel date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vaccines does my dog need every year?
It depends on your dog's lifestyle. Core vaccines (DHPPi and Rabies) follow a schedule that varies from annual to every three years depending on the product and your dog's history. Leptospirosis and Bordetella are given annually if relevant to your dog's lifestyle. We map out your dog's exact schedule at the consultation.
Are there side effects from vaccination?
Most dogs and cats experience mild tiredness or a small tender area at the injection site for 24 to 48 hours. Serious reactions are rare. We ask you to stay for 15 to 20 minutes after vaccination so we can observe your pet immediately.
My cat never goes outside. Does it still need vaccines?
Yes. Viruses can be carried in on clothing and shoes. If your cat ever needs hospitalisation, boarding or grooming, most facilities require up-to-date vaccinations. Panleukopenia is especially deadly and spreads through the environment.
What is a titer test and how does it work?
A titer test measures antibody levels in a blood sample. Specific antibody concentrations indicate whether a pet has sufficient immunity. A high titer means revaccination is not urgently needed. A low titer means a booster is warranted. VacciCheck results are ready within the same appointment.
Can I travel to Europe with my pet from Dubai?
Yes, but EU travel has strict rules. Your pet needs a valid rabies vaccination, a microchip and an official EU health certificate issued by an official veterinarian close to the travel date. We handle the complete documentation and advise on timing requirements specific to your destination country.
Ready to Book?
Our team is available 7 days a week, 10 AM to 10 PM. Book online or call us directly for same-day availability.