Vaccinations are a crucial part of your pet’s healthcare routine, protecting them from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Whether you have a playful pup or a curious cat, ensuring they receive the right vaccines at the right time can help them live a long, healthy life.
Why Are Vaccines Important?
Vaccines work by stimulating your pet’s immune system to recognize and fight off specific diseases. Many of these diseases are highly contagious and can be fatal, making prevention through vaccination essential.
Core and Non-Core Vaccines
Some people may use the slang terms to describe vaccines such as puppy shots or cat shots. Cats and dogs have different types of vaccines which are generally divided into two categories: core and non-core.
Core Vaccines for Dogs
Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs, regardless of lifestyle:
Rabies: A fatal disease that affects the nervous system and can spread to humans.
Distemper: A serious viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
Parvovirus: A highly contagious and deadly virus that causes severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
Adenovirus (Hepatitis): Affects the liver and can cause serious illness.
Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs
Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your dog's lifestyle and risk factors:
Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Important for dogs that visit kennels, dog parks, or groomers.
Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection that can spread to humans and affect the kidneys and liver.
Lyme Disease: Recommended for dogs in some tick-prone areas.
Canine Influenza: Protects against respiratory illness, especially in social dogs.
Core Vaccines for Cats
Core vaccines are essential for all cats:
Rabies: A fatal disease that affects the nervous system and can spread to humans.
Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper): A highly contagious virus that affects the digestive and immune systems.
Feline Herpesvirus & Calicivirus: Causes severe respiratory infections in cats.
Non-Core Vaccines for Cats
Non-core vaccines are recommended based on lifestyle:
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): Important for cats that go outdoors or interact with other cats.
When Should Pets Be Vaccinated?
Puppies and kittens require a series of vaccinations starting at 8 weeks old, with booster shots given every few weeks until they reach 16 weeks of age. Adult pets need regular booster vaccines throughout their lives to maintain immunity.
Are Vaccines Safe for Pets?
Vaccines undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are safe and effective. The vast majority of pets experience no side effects or only mild ones, such as slight soreness at the injection site or temporary lethargy. Severe reactions are extremely rare but should be reported to your veterinarian. The benefits of vaccination in preventing deadly diseases far outweigh the minimal risks involved. If you have concerns about vaccine safety, our veterinary team is happy to discuss any questions you may have.
Protect Your Pet with Vaccines
Vaccinations are a simple and effective way to protect your pet from dangerous diseases. If you’re unsure about your pet’s vaccine schedule, our veterinary team is here to help. Contact us today to ensure your furry friend is up to date on their vaccinations!
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