Vaccines

Many pets live longer, fulfilling lives due to the existence of vaccines. However, even in today’s health-conscious world, various infectious diseases still threaten the health and wellbeing of your pet, especially if they’re unvaccinated. Vaccines, along with regular physical exams, are highly important preventative care measures that protect your pet from deadly diseases. Once your pet receives a vaccine via injection, the process of immunization against these pathogens can begin. 

Although vaccinations are highly effective, it’s critical for pet owners to remain consistent with their pet’s vaccinations, including the type they need, to lower their risk of exposure. Some pets, for instance, may require additional vaccines beyond the core set of vaccinations that are administered to all pets. Vaccine recommendations will also undergo changes throughout your pet’s lifespan. To learn more about what vaccines your pet will need, consult with a veterinarian.

Symptoms/signs

Your pet’s vaccination depends on their age, size, species, and other key factors. Your location will also determine which infections your pet is at risk of. Core vaccines, which are recommended for pets at an early age include:

Dog

• Rabies
• Canine hepatitis
• Canine distemper
• Parainfluenza
• Canine parvovirus

Cats

• Feline distemper
• Feline calicivirus, 
• Feline herpesvirus type I (rhinotracheitis)
• Rabies

Your pet may receive additional vaccines based on their risk of exposure and lifestyle. For dogs, they may receive vaccinations for Leptospirosis, Bordetella bronchiseptica, and Lyme disease. For cats, these may include vaccines for feline leukemia virus, Bordetella, and feline immunodeficiency virus. Sometimes, these vaccines are given in a combination to avoid giving extra injections to your pet. A licensed veterinarian will be able to best advise you on the appropriate vaccines your pet needs for their lifestyle.

Facts about the care/service

There are differing opinions on the amount of vaccinations a pet should receive on a yearly basis. Some owners may decide to subject their pets through a titer test, which measures a pet’s immunity levels against diseases, before determining their pet’s vaccinations schedule. 

In the case of rabies, titer tests are not an option, and vaccination against the rabies virus is mandated by law. While we understand that every pet is unique, it’s well worth placing your pet on a vaccine program that works best for them, whether it’s yearly or not. A healthy pet will be able to thrive and provide you with fierce loyalty and love.