Keeping your dog or cat healthy isn’t just about reacting when something goes wrong—it’s about staying ahead of the problems that can make them sick. Vaccines and parasite control work together as the core of preventive care, helping protect pets from contagious diseases and from pests that spread illness or cause serious discomfort.

Whether you live right here in Ashburn or drive in from Leesburg, Chantilly, Sterling, Brambleton, Broadlands, Centreville, Reston, Herndon, Ashburn Village, Ashburn Farm, Lansdowne, or one of the nearby communities, proactive care now can spare your pet pain—and save you worry later. Below, we’ll walk through what every pet parent should know about immunization schedules, parasite risks that persist beyond summer, and how Nova Animal Hospital can help you build a customized prevention plan that fits your pet’s lifestyle.

1. Why Vaccines and Parasite Prevention Belong Together

Vaccines help your pet’s immune system recognize and fight off specific infectious diseases before they take hold. Parasite prevention, meanwhile, shields pets from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and internal parasites that can transmit bacteria, viruses, and worms—or simply make life miserable with itching and irritation.

When used together, vaccines and parasite control form a health “safety net”: vaccines reduce disease severity and spread, while parasite protection lowers exposure to vectors that often carry illness.

• Fewer gaps in protection across seasons.
• Reduced risk of disease transmission from pests like ticks and mosquitoes.
• Better long-term health outcomes and lower treatment costs.
• Peace of mind when boarding, traveling, or visiting dog parks and trails in Northern Virginia.

2. Understanding Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs & Cats

Not every pet needs the exact same vaccines—but every pet needs some. Veterinarians group vaccines into core (recommended for all pets due to high risk or severity) and non-core (recommended based on lifestyle, travel, exposure, or local disease patterns). Learn more about our vaccination services.

Core Vaccines for Dogs

• Rabies – Required by law in most regions and critical for human and animal safety.
• DA2PP – Protects against highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases.

Common Non-Core Dog Vaccines

• Leptospirosis
• Lyme Disease
• Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
• Canine Influenza

Core Vaccines for Cats

• Rabies
• FVRCP

Common Non-Core Cat Vaccines

• FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus)

Tip: Keep a record of vaccine dates and boosters. If you're a new client, complete our New Client Form before your visit.

3. Parasites to Watch This Season (It’s Not Just a Summer Problem)

While many pet parents relax once peak summer heat fades, parasite activity in Virginia often continues well into the cooler months. Staying consistent with preventives is the best way to avoid infestations and disease transmission. 

• Fleas: Cause itching, allergic reactions, and can transmit tapeworms.
• Ticks: Can spread Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
• Mosquitoes & Heartworm: Serious risk even into fall. Learn more from the American Heartworm Society.
• Intestinal Parasites: Some are zoonotic; routine testing is important.

4. When (and How Often) to Schedule Preventive Care

Timing depends on age and lifestyle. A full Wellness & Preventative Care visit includes vaccine planning, parasite control, and diagnostic screening.

• Puppies/Kittens: Vaccine series and early parasite prevention.
• Adults: Annual boosters and year-round preventives.
• Seniors: Twice-yearly visits and tailored parasite strategies.

5. Home Prevention Tips for Pet Parents Across Northern Virginia

• Check for ticks after hikes or outdoor play.
• Give monthly preventives on time—set reminders.
• Wash pet bedding and keep water fresh to deter mosquitoes.
• Plan ahead for boarding or travel vaccines.

6. Ready to Protect Your Pet?

Now is the perfect time to confirm your pet’s vaccine schedule and parasite prevention. Don’t wait until illness strikes—schedule a visit today using our Request an Appointment form and give your pet the protection they deserve. At Nova Animal Hospital, we proudly serve Ashburn, Leesburg, Chantilly, and surrounding communities.

Your pet depends on you. We’re here to help you keep them safe—every season.