Frequently Asked Questions about Pet Vaccinations

Immunizing your pet is one of the most important ways to protect them against harmful diseases and improve their overall quality of life. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, these are the top benefits:

1.  Immunity from infectious diseases
   

2.  Less money spent treating preventable illnesses
   

3.  Reduced transmission rates from infected animals
   

4.  Protection against viruses spread by wildlife 
   

5.  Compliance with local and state vaccine ordinances 

Fleas not only cause itchy bites, but they can also transmit tapeworms and other parasites. 

Monthly preventative treatments that you coordinate with your veterinary team can help protect your pet. Plus, this routine pet care can also prevent ticks, which can spread Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. 

Most dogs and cats should be given “core vaccinations” that protect them against highly transmissible and/or fatal diseases. For dogs, this often includes the DHPP vaccine (canine distemper, canine parvovirus, parainfluenza, and canine adenovirus). For cats, this consists of the core FVRCP vaccine, which protects against feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, and panleukopenia. Both should receive the rabies vaccine. 

Other non-core vaccines, such as Bordetella, may be required for you to board your pet. 

Cats should receive core vaccines every three years for diseases such as rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, rabies, and feline distemper. Dog vaccinations, on the other hand, should be given every one to three years against canine distemper, rabies, adenovirus, and Bordetella. 

You should always talk with your vet to determine the right pet vaccination schedule, as factors including breed, age, health, lifestyle, and travel can impact their recommendation.

For most pets, immunization effectively prevents diseases or decreases the severity of symptoms. Proper booster shots also help maintain strong immunity as the initial vaccine wears off.

When it comes to immunizing your pet, the benefits far outweigh the risks. Vaccines protect our furry friends, families, and communities from potentially life-threatening illnesses. Most pets respond positively with few side effects. Adverse vaccine reactions are rare – and if they do occur, they’re usually mild, such as slight swelling at the injection site, short-term lethargy, or hives. Severe reactions, such as difficulty breathing, are very rare and require immediate veterinary care. 

Just like human babies, weeks-old puppies and kittens are highly susceptible to infectious diseases while they are building up their immune systems. While nursing, they’re protected by antibodies in their mother’s milk. However, this protection fades quickly, so a series of vaccinations is typically recommended between 6 and 16 weeks of age.  Boosters are also recommended to ensure long-term protection.. 

Cat and dog vaccinations are an essential part of your pet’s preventative care and wellness. Make sure they’re up to date with their immunizations and schedule an appointment with a licensed vet if needed. A healthy pet is a happy pet – and there’s nothing better than helping your best friend live their best life.