There’s no doubt that pet vaccination is a hot topic among pet owners. Every year, many pets develop completely preventable diseases. Are you aware of diseases like Parvo, the distemper virus, and the feline leukemia virus? These are all serious diseases that can kill your pet. It’s important to make sure your veterinarian administers the right vaccinations to keep your pet safe from these illnesses. However, not all vaccines are the same, so it’s essential to educate yourself about what immunizations your pet needs before visiting your veterinarian. Here are some common questions surrounding pet vaccinations, along with our answers.
How do vaccines protect my pet?
Your pet’s immune system constantly defends their body against foreign invaders, such as bacteria and viruses. When their immune system encounters an invader (i.e., an antigen), it forms antibodies that react to that specific pathogen. While some of the antibodies stimulate an active immune response, others tuck away to become memory cells that will remember the specific antigen and trigger an immune response if your pet reencounters it. Vaccines include weakened or killed antigens that stimulate this process and help your pet’s body build a strong defense without exposure to an actual disease.
What vaccines does my pet need?
Our veterinary team carefully considers your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors before making vaccine recommendations. Core vaccines are those that all pets receive, either because all pets are at risk of exposure or because the disease is extremely dangerous, such as with rabies. Other vaccines, such as those for Lyme disease for dogs and Chlamydia for cats, are optional and are given only to pets who are likely to be exposed.
Why do puppies and kittens need so many vaccines?
Puppies and kittens receive passive immunity from their mother’s milk, which begins to fade as they age. As a result, puppies and kittens are vaccinated every three to four weeks until they are 16 weeks old to prevent a gap in protection that will leave them vulnerable to infection.
Does my inside pet, who rarely encounters other pets, really need vaccines?
While pets who are exposed to other animals are at an increased risk of infection, no pet is entirely safe. Microscopic bacteria and viruses can be carried on inanimate objects, such as clothing, shoes, and pet care items. Many diseases are spread by common wildlife species, including rodents, skunks, raccoons, and opossums, who wander freely through most backyards. Other diseases are transmitted by mosquitoes and ticks, which can sneak inside through a tiny crack or catch a ride on your clothing.
Is your pet due for their vaccines? If so, call us to schedule an appointment and protect their health.